bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sporothrix spp. Biofilms Impact in the Zoonotic Transmission Route: Feline Claws Associated Biofilms, Itraconazole Tolerance, and Potential Repurposing for Miltefosine
Authors: dos Santos Giulia Maria Pires , Borba-Santos Luana Pereira , Vila Taissa , Ferreira Gremião Isabella Dib , Pereira Sandro Antonio , De Souza Wanderley , Rozental Sonia
Published: February 2022

Sporotrichosis is the most prevalent subcutaneous mycosis globally, and it is typically caused by direct inoculation of the soil saprophytic fungus Sporothrix spp. into the patients’ skin. However, sporotrichosis has an important zoonotic transmission route between cats and humans in hot-spot endemic areas such as Brazil. Antifungal itraconazole is the first-line treatment; however, it is frequently associated with recurrence after withdrawal, mainly on cats. Biofilms are important resistance structures related to the environmental persistence of most microorganisms. In the present work, we evaluated Sporothrix yeasts’ ability to form biofilms in an ex vivo model of infected claws of cats. Using scanning electron microscopy, we demonstrated the presence of fungal biofilms in the claws of cats diagnosed with sporotrichosis confirmed by isolation of Sporothrix spp. in culture. We present here evidence of antibiofilm activity of miltefosine and suggest its use off-label as an antifungal as a putative alternative to itraconazole against Sporothrix biofilms. Claw contamination could sustain infections through a continuous inoculation cycle between open lesions and cat claws. Our results further support the off-label use of miltefosine as a promising alternative, especially for mycosis refractory to conventional treatment.
Fungal Colonization and Infections—Interactions with Other Human Diseases
Authors: Mahalingam Shanmuga S. , Jayaraman Sangeetha , Pandiyan Pushpa
Published: February 2022

Candida albicans is a commensal fungus that asymptomatically colonizes the skin and mucosa of 60% of healthy individuals. Breaches in the cutaneous and mucosal barriers trigger candidiasis that ranges from asymptomatic candidemia and mucosal infections to fulminant sepsis with 70% mortality rates. Fungi influence at least several diseases, in part by mechanisms such as the production of pro-carcinogenic agents, molecular mimicking, and triggering of the inflammation cascade. These processes impact the interactions among human pathogenic and resident fungi, the bacteriome in various organs/tissues, and the host immune system, dictating the outcomes of invasive infections, metabolic diseases, and cancer. Although mechanistic investigations are at stages of infancy, recent studies have advanced our understanding of host–fungal interactions, their role in immune homeostasis, and their associated pathologies. This review summarizes the role of C. albicans and other opportunistic fungi, specifically their association with various diseases, providing a glimpse at the recent developments and our current knowledge in the context of inflammatory-bowel disease (IBD), cancers, and COVID-19. Two of the most common human diseases where fungal interactions have been previously well-studied are cancer and IBD. Here we also discuss the emerging role of fungi in the ongoing and evolving pandemic of COVID-19, as it is relevant to current health affairs.
The Role of luxS in the Middle Ear Streptococcus pneumoniae Isolate 947
Authors: Tikhomirova Alexandra , Brazel Erin B. , McLean Kimberley T. , Agnew Hannah N. , Paton James C. , Trappetti Claudia
Published: February 2022

The LuxS protein, encoded by luxS, is required for the production of autoinducer 2 (AI-2) in Streptococcus pneumoniae. The AI-2 molecule serves as a quorum sensing signal, and thus regulates cellular processes such as carbohydrate utilisation and biofilm formation, as well as impacting virulence. The role of luxS in S. pneumoniae biology and lifestyle has been predominantly assessed in the laboratory strain D39. However, as biofilm formation, which is regulated by luxS, is critical for the ability of S. pneumoniae to cause otitis media, we investigated the role of luxS in a middle ear isolate, strain 947. Our results identified luxS to have a role in prevention of S. pneumoniae transition from colonisation of the nasopharynx to the ear, and in facilitating adherence to host epithelial cells.
In Vitro Analysis of Matched Isolates from Localized and Disseminated Gonococcal Infections Suggests That Opa Expression Impacts Clinical Outcome
Authors: Wu Cheng-Tai , Huang Po-Wei , Lin Chia-Hsuan , Stein Daniel C. , Song Wenxia , Tseng Sung-Pin , Wang Liang-Chun
Published: February 2022

Gonorrhea is the second most common sexually transmitted infection, which is primarily localized but can be disseminated systemically. The mechanisms by which a localized infection becomes a disseminated infection are unknown. We used five pairs of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates from the cervix/urethra (localized) and the blood (disseminated) of patients with disseminated gonococcal infection to examine the mechanisms that confine gonococci to the genital tract or enable them to disseminate to the blood. Multilocus sequence analysis found that the local and disseminated isolates from the same patients were isogenic. When culturing in vitro, disseminated isolates aggregated significantly less and transmigrated across a polarized epithelial monolayer more efficiently than localized isolates. While localized cervical isolates transmigrated across epithelial monolayers inefficiently, those transmigrated bacteria self-aggregated less and transmigrated more than cervical isolates but comparably to disseminating isolates. The local cervical isolates recruited the host receptors of gonococcal Opa proteins carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules (CEACAMs) on epithelial cells. However, the transmigrated cervical isolate and the disseminated blood isolates recruit CEACAMs significantly less often. Our results collectively suggest that switching off the expression of CEACAM-binding Opa(s), which reduces self-aggregation, promotes gonococcal dissemination.
Acute Intrathoracic Tuberculosis in Children and Adolescents with Community-Acquired Pneumonia in an Area with an Intermediate Disease Burden
Authors: Roya-Pabón Claudia , Restrepo Andrea , Morales Olga , Arango Catalina , Maya María Angélica , Bermúdez Marcela , López Lucelly , Garcés Carlos , Trujillo Mónica , Carmona Luisa Fernanda , Giraldo Margarita Rosa , Vélez Lázaro A. , Rueda Zulma Vanessa
Published: February 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) in the pediatric population is a major challenge. Our objective was to describe the clinical and microbiological characteristics, radiological patterns, and treatment outcomes of children and adolescents (from 1 month to 17 years) with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) caused by TB. We performed a prospective cohort study of a pediatric population between 1 month and 17 years of age and hospitalized in Medellín, Colombia, with the diagnosis of radiologically confirmed CAP that had ≤ 15 days of symptoms. The mycobacterial culture of induced sputum was used for the bacteriological confirmation; the history of TB contact, a tuberculin skin test, and clinical improvement with treatment were used to identify microbiologically negative TB cases. Among 499 children with CAP, TB was diagnosed in 12 (2.4%), of which 10 had less than 8 days of a cough, 10 had alveolar opacities, 9 were younger than 5 years old, and 2 had close contact with a TB patient. Among the TB cases, 50% (6) had microbiological confirmation, 8 had viral and/or bacterial confirmation, one patient had multidrug-resistant TB, and 10/12 had non-severe pneumonia. In countries with an intermediate TB burden, Mycobacterium tuberculosis should be included in the etiological differential diagnosis (as a cause or coinfection) of both pneumonia and severe CAP in the pediatric population.
Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist (Potassium Canrenoate) Does Not Influence Outcome in the Treatment of COVID-19-Associated Pneumonia and Fibrosis—A Randomized Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Kotfis Katarzyna , Karolak Igor , Lechowicz Kacper , Zegan-Barańska Małgorzata , Pikulska Agnieszka , Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej Paulina , Kawa Miłosz , Sieńko Jerzy , Szylińska Aleksandra , Wiśniewska Magda
Published: February 2022

In December 2019 the SARS-CoV-2 virus appeared in the world, mainly presenting as an acute infection of the lower respiratory tract, namely pneumonia. Nearly 10% of all patients show significant pulmonary fibrotic changes after the infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of potassium canrenoate in the treatment of COVID-19-associated pneumonia and pulmonary fibrosis. We performed a randomized clinical trial (RCT) of potassium canrenoate vs placebo. A total of 55 patients were randomized and 49 were included in the final analysis (24 allocated to the intervention group and 25 allocated to the control group). Patients were assessed by physical examination, lung ultrasound, CT imaging and blood samples that underwent biochemical analysis. This RCT has shown that the administration of potassium canrenoate to patients with COVID-19 induced pneumonia was not associated with shorter mechanical ventilation time, shorter passive oxygenation, shorter length of hospitalization or less fibrotic changes on CT imaging. The overall mortality rate was not significantly different between the two groups. Adverse events recorded in this study were not significantly increased by the administration of potassium canrenoate. The negative outcome of the study may be associated with the relatively small number of patients included. Any possible benefits from the use of potassium canrenoate as an antifibrotic drug in COVID-19 patients require further investigation.
Adalimumab Decorated Nanoparticles Enhance Antibody Stability and Therapeutic Outcome in Epithelial Colitis Targeting
Authors: Ries Markus , Moulari Brice , Shetab Boushehri Maryam A. , Ali Mohamed Ehab , Molnar Daniel , Béduneau Arnaud , Pellequer Yann , Lamprecht Alf
Published: February 2022

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract with increasing incidence worldwide. Although a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of IBD has led to new therapeutic approaches, treatment options are still limited. Severe adverse events in conventional drug therapy and poor drug targeting are the main cause of early therapy failure. Nanoparticle-based targeting approaches can selectively deliver drugs to the site of inflammation and reduce the risk of side effects by decreasing systemic availability. Here, we developed a nanoparticulate platform for the delivery of the anti-TNF-α antibody adalimumab (ADA) by covalent crosslinking to the particle surface. ADA binding to nanoparticles improved the stability of ADA against proteolytic degradation in vitro and led to a significantly better therapeutic outcome in a murine colitis model. Moreover, immobilization of ADA reduced systemic exposure, which can lead to enhanced therapeutic safety. Thus, nanoparticle protein decoration constitutes a platform through which epithelial delivery of any biological of interest to the inflamed gut and hence a local treatment can be achieved.
Therapeutic Options for Recurrent Glioblastoma—Efficacy of Talaporfin Sodium Mediated Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Kobayashi Tatsuya , Nitta Masayuki , Shimizu Kazuhide , Saito Taiichi , Tsuzuki Shunsuke , Fukui Atsushi , Koriyama Shunichi , Kuwano Atsushi , Komori Takashi , Masui Kenta , Maehara Taketoshi , Kawamata Takakazu , Muragaki Yoshihiro
Published: February 2022

Recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) remains one of the most challenging clinical issues, with no standard treatment and effective treatment options. To evaluate the efficacy of talaporfin sodium (TS) mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a new treatment for this condition, we retrospectively analyzed 70 patients who underwent surgery with PDT (PDT group) for recurrent GBM and 38 patients who underwent surgery alone (control group). The median progression-free survival (PFS) in the PDT and control groups after second surgery was 5.7 and 2.2 months, respectively (p = 0.0043). The median overall survival (OS) after the second surgery was 16.0 and 12.8 months, respectively (p = 0.031). Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that surgery with PDT and a preoperative Karnofsky Performance Scale were significant independent prognostic factors for PFS and OS. In the PDT group, there was no significant difference regarding PFS and OS between patients whose previous pathology before recurrence was already GBM and those who had malignant transformation to GBM from lower grade glioma. There was also no significant difference in TS accumulation in the tumor between these two groups. According to these results, additional PDT treatment for recurrent GBM could have potential survival benefits and its efficacy is independent of the pre-recurrence pathology.
The Surface Amine Group of Ultrasmall Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Produce Analgesia in the Spinal Cord and Decrease Long-Term Potentiation
Authors: Lu Guan-Ling , Lin Ya-Chi , Wu Ping-Ching , Liu Yen-Chin
Published: February 2022

Our previous studies have revealed the ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide in the amine group USPIO-101 has an analgesic effect on inflammatory pain. Here, we further investigated its effect on the spinal cord and brain via electrophysiological and molecular methods. We used a mouse inflammatory pain model, induced by complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), and measured pain thresholds via von Frey methods. We also investigated the effects of USPIO-101 via an extracellular electrophysiological recording at the spinal dorsal horn synapses and hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses, respectively. The mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Our results showed intrathecal USPIO-101 produces similar analgesic behavior in mice with chronic inflammatory pain via intrathecal or intraplantar administration. The potentiated low-frequency stimulation-induced spinal cord long-term potentiation (LTP) at the spinal cord superficial dorsal horn synapses could decrease via USPIO-101 in mice with chronic inflammatory pain. However, the mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 was enhanced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in microglial cells, and we also found USPIO-101 at 30 µg/mL could decrease the magnitude of hippocampal LTP. These findings revealed that intrathecal USPIO-101 presented an analgesia effect at the spinal cord level, but had neurotoxicity risk at higher doses.
Pharmaceutical and Safety Profile Evaluation of Novel Selenocompounds with Noteworthy Anticancer Activity
Authors: Marć Małgorzata Anna , Domínguez-Álvarez Enrique , Latacz Gniewomir , Doroz-Płonka Agata , Sanmartín Carmen , Spengler Gabriella , Handzlik Jadwiga
Published: February 2022

Prior studies have reported the potent and selective cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, and chemopreventive activities of a cyclic selenoanhydride and of a series of selenoesters. Some of these selenium derivatives demonstrated multidrug resistance (MDR)-reversing activity in different resistant cancer cell lines. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmaceutical and safety profiles of these selected selenocompounds using alternative methods in silico and in vitro. One of the main tasks of this work was to determine both the physicochemical properties and metabolic stability of these selenoesters. The obtained results proved that these tested selenocompounds could become potential candidates for novel and safe anticancer drugs with good ADMET parameters. The most favorable selenocompounds turned out to be the phthalic selenoanhydride (EDA-A6), two ketone-containing selenoesters with a 4-chlorophenyl moiety (EDA-71 and EDA-73), and a symmetrical selenodiester with a pyridine ring and two selenium atoms (EDA-119).
Moxifloxacin Liposomes: Effect of Liposome Preparation Method on Physicochemical Properties and Antimicrobial Activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Natsaridis Evangelos , Gkartziou Foteini , Mourtas Spyridon , Stuart Marc C. A. , Kolonitsiou Fevronia , Klepetsanis Pavlos , Spiliopoulou Iris , Antimisiaris Sophia G.
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was the development of optimal sustained-release moxifloxacin (MOX)-loaded liposomes as intraocular therapeutics of endophthalmitis. Two methods were compared for the preparation of MOX liposomes; the dehydration–rehydration (DRV) method and the active loading method (AL). Numerous lipid-membrane compositions were studied to determine the potential effect on MOX loading and retention in liposomes. MOX and phospholipid contents were measured by HPLC and a colorimetric assay for phospholipids, respectively. Vesicle size distribution and surface charge were measured by DLS, and morphology was evaluated by cryo-TEM. The AL method conferred liposomes with higher MOX encapsulation compared to the DRV method for all the lipid compositions used. Cryo-TEM showed that both liposome types had round vesicular structure and size around 100–150 nm, while a granular texture was evident in the entrapped aqueous compartments of most AL liposomes, but substantially less in DRV liposomes; X-ray diffraction analysis demonstrated slight crystallinity in AL liposomes, especially the ones with highest MOX encapsulation. AL liposomes retained MOX for significantly longer time periods compared to DRVs. Lipid composition did not affect MOX release from DRV liposomes but significantly altered drug loading/release in AL liposomes. Interestingly, AL liposomes demonstrated substantially higher antimicrobial potential towards S. epidermidis growth and biofilm susceptibility compared to corresponding DRV liposomes, indicating the importance of MOX retention in liposomes on their activity. In conclusion, the liposome preparation method/type determines the rate of MOX release from liposomes and modulates their antimicrobial potential, a finding that deserves further in vitro and in vivo exploitation.
Protocol for the Optimizing Naloxone Dispensing in Pharmacies (ONDP) Online Continuing Education Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cid Ashley , Patten Alec , Beazely Michael , Grindrod Kelly , Yessis Jennifer , Chang Feng
Published: February 2022

The number of opioid-related deaths in Canada has steadily increased since 2016 and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened this trend. Naloxone has been pivotal for reducing opioid-related harms and death, and pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring the supply of naloxone to Canadians through community pharmacies. However, naloxone dispensing by pharmacists is not optimal; in fact, in Ontario, only 50% of pharmacists offer naloxone, despite national guidelines that pharmacists should offer naloxone to everyone with an opioid prescription. When asked why pharmacists do not proactively offer naloxone, recent research has identified that pharmacists need continuing education to boost confidence and knowledge on how to start conversations with patients. The study involves a delayed start, double-blind randomized controlled trial, for Canadian licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. The goals of the program are to increase Canadian pharmacy professional’s knowledge, confidence, and motivation to proactively offer naloxone, as well as to decrease stigma associated with naloxone. The program incorporates behaviour change techniques from the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The intervention program includes three modules that focus on improving pharmacists’ communication skills by teaching them how to proactively offer naloxone, while the control group will complete a reading assignment on the naloxone consensus guidelines. The program will involve a process and outcome evaluation in addition to a contribution analysis. This program is important for breaking down previously identified barriers and knowledge gaps for why pharmacists currently do not proactively offer naloxone. This study will provide important new information about what behaviour change techniques are successful in improving confidence and motivation in the pharmacy profession and in an online environment. Findings from this study can be used to produce a national naloxone education program that can also be implemented into current pharmacy school curriculum.
Assessment of Information Sharing on Adverse Drug Reactions by Community Pharmacies with Other Medical Institutions
Authors: Kikuchi Daisuke , Obara Taku , Noda Aoi , Oyanagi Gen , Ishikuro Mami , Okada Kouji , Mano Nariyasu
Published: February 2022

Widespread coordination and sharing of information regarding adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are important for drug safety assessment. However, the actual status of coordination and sharing of information on ADRs in community pharmacies remains unclear. Therefore, a survey was conducted at community pharmacies to analyze the status. In this cross-sectional study conducted from 31 March 2021 to 9 April 2021, a request letter with the uniform resource locator of the questionnaire form was sent to 302 community pharmacies affiliated with Tsuruha Holdings Inc., and the responses were obtained online. The response rate for the questionnaires was 80.8% (n = 244). In total, 20.9% of the community pharmacies provided information on patients’ ADRs to hospitals or clinics prescribing drugs. None of the community pharmacies provided patient ADR information to other community pharmacies. Of the community pharmacies, 98.8% felt that insufficient information was available to monitor ADRs from hospitals or clinics prescribing drugs. For example, the name of the disease (67.6%), considered to be the most common information, was insufficiently provided. Overall, the existing system for providing information on ADRs between community pharmacies and other medical institutions is insufficient and needs to be developed further.
A Band-Switchable and Tunable THz Metamaterial Based on an Etched Vanadium Dioxide Thin Film
Authors: Shin Jun-Hwan , Park Kyung Hyun , Ryu Han-Cheol
Published: February 2022

A band-switchable and tunable terahertz (THz) metamaterial based on a vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin film was proposed in the THz frequency regime. The VO2 thin film with a high conductivity change rate and smooth phase transition characteristics was deposited. To obtain band switching characteristics and reduce THz wave loss, the VO2 thin film was etched in the form of a line. Two rectangular C-shaped resonators were configured to face each other, with an etched VO2 thin film line in between. When the VO2 thin film was in the insulator phase, the two resonators individually resonated, and when the VO2 thin film was in the metal phase, they were connected and resonated as one, showing band switching characteristics. According to the state of the VO2 thin film, the fabricated metamaterial resonated at 1.29 THz when the two resonators were electrically separated and resonated at 0.65 THz when the two resonators were electrically connected. In the band-switching process, the THz wave transmission characteristics were continuously tunable. The measurement results of the proposed structure clearly showed that the rectangular C-shaped metamaterial based on the etched VO2 thin film is capable of band switching and continuous transmission control. In the near future, band-switchable and tunable THz metamaterials based on etched VO2 thin films can be employed as key devices in THz wave 6G wireless communication technology.
Indoor High-Precision 3D Positioning System Based on Visible-Light Communication Using Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Meng Xianmeng , Jia Chaochuan , Cai Cuicui , He Fugui , Wang Qing
Published: February 2022

Visible-light communication (VLC) is a promising method for indoor positioning. The received signal strength algorithm is the most widely used localization algorithm in visible-light positioning (VLP) systems. However, in a VLP system, the photodiode (PD) will have a small rotation angle during movement, which will result in a massive positioning error ignoring the angle. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) indoor VLP system using an improved whale optimization algorithm (IWOA) is proposed to reduce the error caused by the PD rotation. Firstly, the model of the VLC system with the PD rotation angles is introduced. Secondly, a novel IWOA with an elite opposition-based learning strategy and Lévy flight strategy is proposed. The convergence speed and accuracy of the WOA are improved. Lastly, the IWOA algorithm is efficiently utilized to address the problem with the PD rotation in the indoor VLP system. Simulation results show that the average error of 3D positioning is 2.14 cm with no PD rotation. When the PD has a rotation angle, the average positioning error estimated by ignoring the rotation angle is 27.14 cm, while that estimated by considering the rotation angle is 7.85 cm. In the VLP system, the positioning error with the PD rotation angle is effectively reduced by the proposed algorithm, which can be applied in a variety of indoor location scenes.
When Morphology and Biogeography Approximate Nuclear ITS but Conflict with Plastid Phylogeny: Phylogeography of the Lotus dorycnium Species Complex (Leguminosae)
Authors: Kramina Tatiana E. , Lysova Maya V. , Samigullin Tahir H. , Özbek Mehmet U. , Sokoloff Dmitry D.
Published: February 2022

Lotus dorycnium s.l. is a complex of taxa traditionally regarded as members of Dorycnium. It has a wide Mediterranean range, extending in the north to Central and Eastern Europe, and in the east to the Crimea, the Caucasus, and the Western Caspian region. Molecular phylogenetic data support placement of the L. dorycnium complex in the genus Lotus. The present study investigated the phylogeny, phylogeography and morphological variability of the L. dorycnium complex across its distribution range to reveal the main trends in genetic and morphological differentiation in this group. The results of the morphological analyses demonstrated some degree of differentiation, with L. d. ssp. herbaceus, ssp. gracilis, and ssp. anatolicus more or less well defined, whereas ssp. dorycnium, ssp. germanicus, and ssp. haussknechtii can be hardly distinguished from each other using morphology. Analyses of the L. dorycnium complex based on nrITS revealed a tendency towards a geographic differentiation into Western, Eastern, and Turkish groups. Phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses of the same set of specimens using concatenated plastid markers trnL-F, rps16, and psbA-trnH demonstrated a low resolution between the L. dorycnium complex and L. hirsutus, as well as among the taxa within the L. dorycnium complex, which can be interpreted as evidence of an incomplete lineage sorting or hybridization. The evolutionary processes responsible for incongruence in phylogenetic signals between plastid and nuclear sequences of the morphologically well-defined species L. dorycnium and L. hirsutus were most likely localized in the Eastern Mediterranean. A possibility of rare gene exchange between the L. dorycnium complex and the group of L. graecus is revealed for the first time.
Identification of Weed-Suppressive Tomato Cultivars for Weed Management
Authors: Werle Isabel Schlegel , Castro Edicarlos , Pucci Carolina , Soni Chakraborty Bhawna , Broderick Shaun , Tseng Te Ming
Published: February 2022

Weed-suppressive crop cultivars are a potentially attractive option in weed management strategies (IWM). A greenhouse study was conducted at the R. R. Foil Plant Science Research Center, Starkville, MS, to assess the potential weed-suppressive ability of 17 tomato cultivars against Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats), yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus L.), and large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis L.). The experiment was a completely randomized design, with four replications, and was repeated twice. The height, chlorophyll, and dry weight biomass of the weeds were measured 28 days after sowing. Weed suppression varied greatly among tomato cultivars. The most significant effect of tomato interference was recorded on Palmer amaranth, and the least reduction was observed with yellow nutsedge plants. Cultivars 15 and 41 reduced Palmer amaranth height and biomass by about 45 and 80%, respectively, while cultivar 38 reduced 60% of the chlorophyll percentage. Large crabgrass plants were 35% shorter in the presence of cultivar 38 and had a biomass reduction of 35% in the presence of cultivar 38. Under tomato interference, a minimal effect was observed in chlorophyll, height, and biomass of yellow nutsedge seedlings. Factoring all parameters evaluated, cultivars 38 and 33 were most suppressive against Palmer amaranth and large crabgrass.
Ginger Extract and Fulvic Acid Foliar Applications as Novel Practical Approaches to Improve the Growth and Productivity of Damask Rose
Authors: Ali Esmat F. , Al-Yasi Hatim M. , Issa Ahmed A. , Hessini Kamel , Hassan Fahmy A. S.
Published: February 2022

Plant biostimulants (BIOs) have been identified as among the best agricultural practices over the past few decades. Ginger extract (GE) and fulvic acid (FA) are a new family of multifunctional BIOs that positively affect development processes in plants. However, the underlying mechanisms that influence these development processes are still unknown. The objective of this study was to determine how GE and FA affect the plant growth and productivity in damask rose. Furthermore, the mechanisms of these BIOs that regulate the performance of this plant were investigated. Damask rose plants were foliar-sprayed with GE (5, 10 and 15 mg L−1) or FA (1, 3 and 5 g L−1), while control plants were sprayed with tap water. The results showed that GE or FA foliar applications enhanced plant height and branch number much more than the control; however, FA treatment was more effective than GE. Intriguingly, flower number, flower yield, relative water content, and total chlorophyll content were all improved by either GE or FA, paying attention to reducing the blind shoot number per plant. Relative to the control, foliar application with 15 mg L−1 GE or 3 mg L−1FA increased the flower number by 16.11% and 19.83% and the flower yield per hectare by 40.53% and 52.75%, respectively. Substantial enhancements in volatile oil content and oil yield were observed due to GE and FA treatments, especially with the highest concentrations of both BIOs. The treatments of GE and FA considerably improved the total soluble sugars, total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, and total carotenoid content, more so with FA. Additionally, the contents of N, P, K, Mg, Fe, and Zn elements were also enhanced by applying either GE or FA, especially at higher levels of both BIOs. In sum, our findings illuminate the potential functions of exogenous application of GE and FA in improving the growth, flower yield, and volatile oil yield in damask rose through enhancing the phytochemical and nutrient profiles. Applications of GE and FA can, thus, be a promising approach for enhancing the productivity of damask rose.
Development of the PARMS Marker of the Dominant Genic Male Sterility (DGMS) Line and Its Utilization in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Breeding
Authors: Li Zhen , Yuan Rong , Wang Miao , Hong Meiyan , Zhu Li , Li Xiaofei , Guo Ruixing , Wu Gang , Zeng Xinhua
Published: February 2022

The 8029AB line is a dominant genic male sterility (DGMS) two-type line in Brassica napus L., which can be used in a three-line approach for the seed production of rapeseed hybrids. Genetic analyses have demonstrated that the sterility of 8029A is controlled by a single dominant nuclear gene (BnMS5e) interacting with one recessive gene (BnMS5c). Six pairs of penta-primer amplification refractory mutation system (PARMS) markers were designed according to the sequence of BnMS5a, BnMS5c and BnMS5e. Two pairs of these PARMS markers were successfully identified and validated. The PARMS markers MS5-1Fc/MS5-1Ft/MS5-1R12 could distinguish BnMS5c from BnMS5a/BnMS5e, and the PARMS markers MS5-2Ft/MS5-2Fa/MS5-1R12 could genotype BnMS5a and BnMS5c/BnMS5e. The combination of these two pairs of PARMS markers could be used to identify the presence or absence of BnMS5a/BnMS5c/BnMS5e effectively. Consequently, marker-assisted selection can be carried out in the early generation to shorten the breeding period and improve the breeding efficiency.
Allium ducissae (A. subgen. Polyprason, Amaryllidaceae) a New Species from the Central Apennines (Italy)
Authors: Bartolucci Fabrizio , Iocchi Marco , De Castro Olga , Conti Fabio
Published: February 2022

In this paper, Allium ducissae (the LSID for the name Allium ducissae is: 77254606-1) is described as a new species based on morphological and molecular analyses, and its taxonomic relationships are discussed. It grows in crevices on calcareous rocks, rocky slopes and grassy ledges in the subalpine belt, within two regional protected areas in the Lazio and Abruzzo administrative regions (Central Apennines, Italy). Previously, these populations were attributed to A. strictum, a species described from Siberia, belonging to A. sect. Reticulatobulbosa. The new species is distinct from A. strictum in the morphology of vegetative and reproductive structures. Indeed, it is close to A. palentinum, an endemic species to Cantabrian Mountains (NW Spain). Both molecular and morphological data support the recognition of the Allium populations coming from the Central Apennines as a new species. Allium ducissae can be clearly distinguished from A. palentinum by longer and wider tepals, longer filaments, tooth of inner filament, flower pedicels, spathe appendage, and smaller seeds. Moreover, seed testa micro-sculptures revealed slight differences between A. ducissae and A. palentinum. Chromosome counts showed that A. ducissae is diploid with 2n = 16 chromosomes, as already known for A. palentinum. Molecular analyses support the affiliation of A. ducissae and A. palentinum to A. sect. Falcatifolia, contrary to what is known for the latter species, usually included in A. sect. Daghestanica. Finally, the IUCN assessment for the newly described species is proposed and briefly discussed.
Identification of QTLs for Grain Protein Content in Russian Spring Wheat Varieties
Authors: Leonova Irina N. , Kiseleva Antonina A. , Berezhnaya Alina A. , Stasyuk Anatoly I. , Likhenko Ivan E. , Salina Elena A.
Published: February 2022

Most modern breeding programs aim to develop wheat (T. aestivum L.) varieties with a high grain protein content (GPC) due to its greater milling and cooking quality, and improved grain price. Here, we used a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to map single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with GPC in 93 spring bread wheat varieties developed by eight Russian Breeding Centers. The varieties were evaluated for GPC, grain weight per spike (GWS), and thousand-kernel weight (TKW) at six environments, and genotyped with 9351 polymorphic SNPs and two SNPs associated with the NAM-A1 gene. GPC varied from 9.8 to 20.0%, depending on the genotype and environment. Nearly 52% of the genotypes had a GPC > 14.5%, which is the threshold value for entry into high-class wheat varieties. Broad-sense heritability for GPC was moderate (0.42), which is due to the significant effect of environment and genotype × environment interactions. GWAS performed on mean GPC evaluated across six environments identified eleven significant marker-trait associations, of which nine were physically mapped on chromosome 6A. Screening of wheat varieties for allelic variants of the NAM-A1 gene indicated that 60% of the varieties contained the NAM-A1c allele, followed by 33% for NAM-A1d, and 5% for NAM-A1a alleles. Varieties with the NAM-A1d allele showed significantly (p < 0.01) smaller GPC than those with NAM-A1c and NAM-A1a. However, no significant differences between NAM-A1 alleles were observed for both GWS and TKW.
Effect of Processing on Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, Physicochemical, and Sensory Properties of Orange Sweet Potato, Red Rice, and Their Application for Flake Products
Authors: Jati Ignasius Radix A. P. , Darmoatmodjo Laurensia M. Y. D. , Suseno Thomas I. P. , Ristiarini Susana , Wibowo Condro
Published: February 2022

Orange sweet potato (OSP) and red rice (RR) are rich sources of health benefit-associated substances and can be conventionally cooked or developed into food products. This research approach was to closely monitor the changes of bioactive compounds and their ability as antioxidants from the native form to the food products which are ready to be consumed. Moreover, this research explored the individual carotenoids and tocopherols of raw and cooked OSP and RR and their developed flake products, and also investigated their antioxidant activity, physicochemical properties, and sensory properties. Simultaneous identification using the liquid chromatographic method showed that OSP, RR, and their flake products have significant amounts (µg/g) of β-carotene (278.58–48.83), α-carotene (19.57–15.66), β-cryptoxanthin (4.83–2.97), α-tocopherol (57.65–18.31), and also γ-tocopherol (40.11–12.15). Different responses were observed on the bioactive compound and antioxidant activity affected by heating process. Meanwhile, OSP and RR can be combined to form promising flake products, as shown from the physicochemical analysis such as moisture (5.71–4.25%) and dietary fiber (13.86–9.47%) contents, water absorption index (1.69–1.06), fracturability (8.48–2.27), crispness (3.9–1.5), and color. Those quality parameters were affected by the proportions of OSP and RR in the flake products. Moreover, the preference scores (n = 120 panelists) for the flakes ranged from slightly liked to indifferent. It can be concluded that OSP and RR are potential sources of bioactive compounds which could act as antioxidants and could be developed into flake products that meet the dietary and sensory needs of consumers.
Transcriptome and Physiological Analysis of Rootstock Types and Silicon Affecting Cold Tolerance of Cucumber Seedlings
Authors: Luan Heng , Niu Chenxu , Nie Xinmiao , Li Yan , Wei Min
Published: February 2022

Cucumbers grafted on rootstocks with different de-blooming capacity show varying levels of cold tolerance. The content of fruit bloom correlates with its silicon-metabolizing capacity, and rootstock grafting can alter not only the cold tolerance but also the silicon-metabolizing capacity of the scion. The molecular mechanisms responsible for resistance due to rootstocks and silicon and the pathway that affects cold tolerance, however, remain poorly understood. Therefore, we performed physiological and transcriptome analysis to clarify how rootstock types and silicon affect cold tolerance in cucumber seedlings. Then, we randomly selected eight differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis to proof the reliability of the transcriptome data. The results showed that silicon can enhance the cold tolerance of cucumbers by boosting the phenylpropanoid metabolism, and rootstock grafting can boost the active oxygen scavenging ability and synthesis level of hormones in cucumbers and maintain the stability of the membrane structure to enhance cold tolerance. The difference in cold tolerance between the two rootstocks is because the cold-tolerant one has stronger metabolic and sharp signal transduction ability and can maintain the stability of photosynthesis, thereby contributing to the stability of the cellular system and enhancing tolerance to cold.
A New Strategy to Improve Management of Citrus Mal Secco Disease Using Bioformulates Based on Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Strains
Authors: Aiello Dalia , Leonardi Giuseppa Rosaria , Di Pietro Chiara , Vitale Alessandro , Polizzi Giancarlo
Published: February 2022

The effectiveness of biological commercial products based on Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strains was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo experiments against Plenodomus tracheiphilus. The activity of bacterial cells, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and culture filtrates of bacteria were tested in vitro against different isolates of P. tracheiphilus. Afterwards, the virulence of these isolates was evaluated on Citrus volkameriana plants to select the most virulent isolate to use in the in vivo experiments. To evaluate the effectiveness of products, C. volkameriana seedlings were pre-treated, twice with biological products and once with standard fungicides, before pathogen inoculation. Moreover, in order to determine the endophytic ability of the bacteria, the population density within the treated citrus stem was determined. Comprehensively, bacterial cells, filtrates, and VOCs were able to significantly reduce the average mycelial diameter of P. tracheiphilus, with some variability according to pathogen isolate. In planta experiments showed that the biological products on average were less effective than fungicides, although all formulates were able to significantly reduce disease incidence and symptom severity, except B. amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (Amylo-X) for symptom severity (SS) 20 days after inoculation. Bacteria were re-isolated from the internal woody tissue of treated plants, showing strong endophytic ability. This work is important as commercial biological products based on B. amyloliquefaciens strains could represent a promising and sustainable alternative for the integrated management of mal secco disease.
Sulfur in Seeds: An Overview
Authors: Mondal Sananda , Pramanik Kalipada , Panda Debasish , Dutta Debjani , Karmakar Snehashis , Bose Bandana
Published: February 2022

Sulfur is a growth-limiting and secondary macronutrient as well as an indispensable component for several cellular components of crop plants. Over the years various scientists have conducted several experiments on sulfur metabolism based on different aspects of plants. Sulfur metabolism in seeds has immense importance in terms of the different sulfur-containing seed storage proteins, the significance of transporters in seeds, the role of sulfur during the time of seed germination, etc. The present review article is based on an overview of sulfur metabolism in seeds, in respect to source to sink relationships, S transporters present in the seeds, S-regulated seed storage proteins and the importance of sulfur at the time of seed germination. Sulfur is an essential component and a decidable factor for seed yield and the quality of seeds in terms of oil content in oilseeds, storage of qualitative proteins in legumes and has a significant role in carbohydrate metabolism in cereals. In conclusion, a few future perspectives towards a more comprehensive knowledge on S metabolism/mechanism during seed development, storage and germination have also been stated.
Transfer of 7 Organic UV Filters from Sediment to the Ragworm Hediste diversicolor: Bioaccumulation of Benzophenone-3 and Further Proof of Octocrylene Metabolism
Authors: Clergeaud Fanny , Fagervold Sonja K. , Rodrigues Alice M. S. , Thorel Evane , Stien Didier , Lebaron Philippe
Published: February 2022

Organic UV filters are continuously released in aquatic ecosystems due to their widespread use, especially in touristic coastal environments. Generally, organic UV filters are poorly soluble in water and tend to accumulate in the sediment compartment. This represents a conceivable risk for sediment-dwelling organisms and a potential for transfer of the UV filters up the food chain. This study aimed to assess the potential transfer of seven UV filters including benzophenone-3 (BP3), bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine (BEMT), butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (BM), methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol (MBBT), 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (ES), diethylhexyl butamido triazone (DBT), and octocrylene (OC) from artificial spiked sediment (10 µg.g−1 dry weight) to sediment-dwelling worms. All UV filters were detected in the worms after 28 days of exposure, but only BP3 was apparently bioaccumulated, with a biota sediment accumulation factor (BSAF) of 12.38 ± 4.65. However, metabolomic profiling revealed that OC was metabolized by the worms into 11 fatty acid conjugates, demonstrating that OC did also accumulate in the worms in the form of OC–fatty acid conjugates. Here, the sole quantification of the parent organic UV filter underestimated the accumulation factor and the exposure of organisms. In general, it is therefore important to pair the conventional method (BSAF calculus) with other techniques, such as metabolomics, to assess the actual potential for bioaccumulation of xenobiotics including transformed xenobiotics.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of Mechanical, Thermal, and Antibacterial Properties of PLA/ZnO Nanoflower Biocomposite Filaments for 3D Printing Application
Authors: Jamnongkan Tongsai , Jaroensuk Ornthiwa , Khankhuean Anchan , Laobuthee Apirat , Srisawat Natee , Pangon Autchara , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol , Phuengphai Pongthipun , Wattanakornsiri Amnuay , Huang Chih-Feng
Published: February 2022

Functionalities of 3D printing filaments have gained much attention owing to their properties for various applications in the last few years. Innovative biocomposite 3D printing filaments based on polylactic acid (PLA) composited with ZnO nanoflowers at varying contents were successfully fabricated via a single-screw extrusion technique. The effects of the varying ZnO nanoflower contents on their chemical, thermal, mechanical, and antibacterial properties were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and tensile testing, as well as qualitative and quantitative antibacterial tests, respectively. It was found that the ZnO nanoflowers did not express any chemical reactions with the PLA chains. The degrees of the crystallinity of the PLA/ZnO biocomposite filaments increased when compared with those of the neat PLA, and their properties slightly decreased when increasing the ZnO nanoflower contents. Additionally, the tensile strength of the PLA/ZnO biocomposite filaments gradually decreased when increasing the ZnO nanoflower contents. The antibacterial activity especially increased when increasing the ZnO nanoflower contents. Additionally, these 3D printing filaments performed better against Gram-positive (S. aureus) than Gram-negative (E. coli). This is probably due to the difference in the cell walls of the bacterial strains. The results indicated that these 3D printing filaments could be utilized for 3D printing and applied to medical fields.
Adsorption Kinetics of Polystyrene and Poly(9-anthracenyl methyl methacrylate) onto SiO2 Surface Measured by Chip Nano-Calorimetry
Authors: Ishihara Mina , Watanabe Tomoya , Sasaki Takashi
Published: February 2022

The alternating current (AC) chip nano-calorimetry is a powerful tool to investigate the physical properties of polymer thin films. In this paper, we report on the adsorption kinetics of polymers in which an AC chip nano-calorimetry was used for the first time. This technique allows for the real-time measurement of the adsorption kinetics of polymer chains onto the SiO2 surface. We used polystyrene (PS) and poly(9-anthracenyl methyl methacrylate) (PAMMA), which have different chemical natures and side group sizes. It was confirmed that the observed adsorption kinetics for PS were consistent with previously reported results obtained by dielectric spectroscopy. For PAMMA, we found characteristic adsorption kinetics, which shows a clear kink at the crossover between the early and later stages, while PS exhibits a lesser tendency of showing the kink as demonstrated by previously reported results.