bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment of a Quadruplex RT-qPCR for the Detection of Canine Coronavirus, Canine Respiratory Coronavirus, Canine Adenovirus Type 2, and Canine Norovirus
Authors: Shi Kaichuang , Shi Yandi , Shi Yuwen , Long Feng , Yin Yanwen , Pan Yi , Li Zongqiang , Feng Shuping
Published: December 2024

Canine coronavirus (CCoV), canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), and canine norovirus (CNV) are important pathogens for canine viral gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. Especially, co-infections with these viruses exacerbate the damages of diseases. In this study, four pairs of primers and probes were designed to specifically amplify the conserved regions of the CCoV M gene, CRCoV N gene, CAV-2 hexon gene, and CNV RdRp gene. After optimizing different reaction conditions, a quadruplex RT-qPCR was established for the detection of CCoV, CRCoV, CAV-2, and CNV. The specificity, sensitivity, and repeatability of the established assay were evaluated. Then, the assay was used to test 1688 clinical samples from pet hospitals in Guangxi province of China during 2022–2024 to validate its clinical applicability. In addition, these samples were also assessed using the reported reference RT-qPCR assays, and the agreements between the developed and reference assays were determined. The results indicated that the quadruplex RT-qPCR could specifically test only CCoV, CRCoV, CAV-2, and CNV, without cross-reaction with other canine viruses. The assay had high sensitivity with limits of detection (LODs) of 1.0 × 102 copies/reaction for CCoV, CRCoV, CAV-2, and CNV. The repeatability was excellent, with intra-assay variability of 0.19–1.31% and inter-assay variability of 0.10–0.88%. The positivity rates of CCoV, CRCoV, CAV-2, and CNV using the developed assay were 8.59% (145/1688), 8.65% (146/1688), 2.84% (48/1688), and 1.30% (22/1688), respectively, while the positivity rates using the reference assays were 8.47% (143/1688), 8.53% (144/1688), 2.78% (47/1688), and 1.24% (21/1688), respectively, with agreements of more than 99.53% between two methods. In conclusion, a quadruplex RT-qPCR with high sensitivity, specificity, and repeatability was developed for rapid, and accurate detection of CCoV, CRCoV, CAV-2, and CNV.
Evaluating Drug Interaction Risks: Nirmatrelvir & Ritonavir Combination (PAXLOVID®) with Concomitant Medications in Real-World Clinical Settings
Authors: Zatovkaňuková Petra , Veselý Dalibor , Slíva Jiří
Published: December 2024

Background: This research article delves into the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the efficacy and, particularly, the safety of the combination of nirmatrelvir with ritonavir, which is found in the pharmaceutical product Paxlovid®. This study aims to analyze the potential interactions of commonly prescribed medicinal products with Paxlovid®, shedding light on its utilization in specific medical fields. Methods: Prescription data from the Czech Republic’s Institute of Health Information and Statistics (IHIS CR) was analyzed, covering 4 million COVID-19 patients and 87.5 million medication records from September 2019 to February 2022. This study focused on potential drug interactions with Paxlovid among the 50 most frequently prescribed medications, with particular attention to four specialties: general medicine, internal medicine, infectious diseases, and diabetology. Results: In this study of the 50 most commonly prescribed drugs, 56% showed no interaction with Paxlovid, 30% had a potential for interaction, and 14% were not specifically mentioned in relation to Paxlovid, with no drugs found to be contraindicated overall. However, in specific medical fields, including diabetology, infectious diseases, internal medicine, and general medicine, certain drugs had potential interactions when co-administered with Paxlovid. Conclusions: Paxlovid remains a valuable option for early COVID-19 treatment but requires a careful consideration of potential drug interactions, especially in high-risk specialties. A thorough assessment of concurrent medications is essential to optimize safety and efficacy in patients receiving Paxlovid.
Papillomaviruses and Papillomaviral Disease in Dogs and Cats: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Munday John S. , Knight Cameron G.
Published: December 2024

Papillomaviruses (PVs) frequently infect humans as well as non-human species. While most PV infections are asymptomatic, PVs can also cause hyperplastic papillomas (warts) as well as pre-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions. In this review, the life cycle of PVs is discussed, along with the mechanisms by which PVs cause hyperplastic and neoplastic diseases. The humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to PVs are reviewed, giving context to the later discussion on the use of vaccines to reduce canine and feline PV-associated disease. Both dogs and cats are infected by numerous different PV types classified into multiple different PV genera. The taxonomic classification of PVs is reviewed, along with the significance of this classification. The PV-associated diseases of dogs and cats are then described. These descriptions include the clinical presentation of the disease, the causative PV types, the histological features that allow diagnosis, and, where appropriate, possible treatment options. The review is comprehensive and contains the latest information about PVs and the diseases they cause in dogs and cats.
HEV Infection in Beta-Thalassemia Patients
Authors: Papageorgiou Despoina , de Lastic Anne-Lise , Tsachouridou Olga , Metallidis Simeon , Akinosoglou Karolina
Published: December 2024

Thalassemia is an inherited hematological disorder characterized by a decrease in the synthesis of or absence of one or more globin chains. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute viral hepatitis, constituting a major global health burden and emerging as a critical public health concern. HEV infection is mainly transmitted via the fecal–oral route; however, parenteral transmission through blood components has been reported in both developing and developed countries. Although HEV infection is typically self-limiting, immunocompromised individuals, patients with chronic liver disease, and thalassemic patients are at a heightened risk of contracting the infection and may develop chronic hepatitis and life-threatening complications that require treatment. The reported prevalence rates of HEV in thalassemia patients vary significantly by country. Age, gender, residential area, and the cumulative amount of blood transfusions received have been identified as associated risk factors for HEV infection. In order to enhance blood safety and ensure the protection of vulnerable patient populations, such as thalassemia patients, several countries have introduced universal or targeted HEV screening policies in blood donations. Other preventive measures include vigilant monitoring of thalassemic patients and screening for anti-HEV antibodies. The aim of this review is to explore the prevalence, risk factors, clinical impact and management of HEV infection in patients with thalassemia.
Serological Survey of Leptospira spp. in Livestock and Rodents from Different Settlements in the Kilombero Wetland, Tanzania
Authors: Selemani Mwajabu , Makundi Rhodes H. , Massawe Apia W. , Katakweba Abdul S.
Published: December 2024

Background: The circulation of Leptospira has been linked to various occupational activities globally. This study investigated the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in rodents and livestock (cattle and goats) in three settlements/villages involved in agriculture, livestock keeping, and mixed agriculture and livestock in the Kilombero district, Tanzania. Methods: Data were collected during the wet and dry seasons. A total of 179 rodents were live-captured from selected habitats. Livestock samples were collected from 80 cattle in a livestock settlement and 120 goats from both livestock and mixed agricultural–livestock settlements. The microscopic agglutination test was utilized to identify Leptospira serovars. Results: The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. was 17.3% in rodents (21.7% in Mastomys natalensis and 3.9% in Rattus rattus) and 8.3% in livestock (13.5% in cattle and 12.6% in goats). The prevalence among rodents and livestock differed between settlements (p = 0.01). A higher prevalence was observed among rodents in the agricultural settlement relative to the other settlements. A higher prevalence of antibodies in livestock was observed in the livestock settlement compared with the mixed agricultural–livestock settlement. The Leptospira serovars Sokoine (serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae) and Hebdomadis (serogroup Hebdomadis) were detected in both rodents and livestock. The serovars Hardjo (serogroup Sejroe) and Gripothyphosa (serogroup Gripothyphosa) were found exclusively in cattle, whereas the serovars Pomona (serogroup Pomona) and Lora (serogroup Australis) were identified in rodents. Leptospira antibodies were found to be elevated during the rainy season compared with the dry season (p = 0.05) in all settlements, with the exception of rodents in the mixed agricultural–livestock settlement. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the presence of anti-Leptospira antibodies in rodents and livestock related to occupational activities in human settlements. It further demonstrates that wild animals (rodents) and livestock are reservoirs of Leptospira and are important in the epidemiology of leptospirosis. Management and control strategies should target both rodents and livestock.
Log BB Prediction Models Using TLC and HPLC Retention Values as Protein Affinity Data
Authors: Wanat Karolina , Michalak Klaudia , Brzezińska Elżbieta
Published: December 2024

Background: The penetration of drugs through the blood–brain barrier is one of the key pharmacokinetic aspects of centrally acting active substances and other drugs in terms of the occurrence of side effects on the central nervous system. In our research, several regression models were constructed in order to observe the connections between the active pharmaceutical ingredients’ properties and their bioavailability in the CNS, presented in the form of the log BB parameter, which refers to the drug concentration on both sides of the blood–brain barrier. Methods: Predictive models were created using the physicochemical properties of drugs, and multiple linear regression and a data mining method, i.e., MARSplines, were used to build them. Retention values from protein-affinity chromatography (TLC and HPLC) were introduced into the analyses. In both experiments, the stationary phases were modified with serum albumin, which enriched the obtained chromatographic data, and were then introduced into the models with good results. Results: The conducted analyses confirm that the variables that influence the log BB include high degree of lipophilicity, ionisation capacity and low capability of forming hydrogen bonds. However, the addition of chromatographic data improved the obtained regression results and increased the robustness of the models against an increased number of cases. The linear regression model with chromatographic parameters explains 85% of the log bb variability, whereas the MARSplines model explains 91%. Conclusions: Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the use of chromatographic data can increase the robustness of predictive regression models related to penetration through biological barriers.
Novel Lipid Formulation Increases Absorption of Oral Cannabidiol (CBD)
Authors: Chesney Edward , Mazibuko Ndabezinhle , Oliver Dominic , Minichino Amedeo , Lamper Ayşe Doğa , Chester Lucy , Reilly Thomas J. , Lloyd Millie , Kråkström Matilda , Dickens Alex M. , Orešič Matej , Lynch Eric , Stoloff Gregory , Mehta Mitul A. , McGuire Philip
Published: December 2024

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is an approved treatment for childhood epilepsies and a candidate treatment for several other CNS disorders. However, it has poor oral bioavailability. We investigated the effect of a novel lipid formulation on its absorption in humans and on its tissue distribution in mice. Methods: In a double-blind crossover study in fasting healthy volunteers, we compared the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of 1000 mg of CBD in the lipid formulation and in a powder formulation (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05032807). In a second study, male CD1 mice were administered CBD in either the lipid formulation or dissolved in water, via oral gavage (n = 1 per timepoint). The tissue distribution of CBD was assessed using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging. Results: Plasma exposure (AUC0–48) of CBD was nine times greater for the lipid formulation than the powder formulation (611.1 ng·h/mL [coefficient of variation {CV%}: 104.6] and 66.8 ng·h/mL [CV%: 50.7], respectively). With the powder formulation, the AUC0–48 was related to the concentration of specific gastrointestinal bacteria and bile acids. These associations were attenuated with the lipid formulation. In the animal study, after treatment with the lipid formulation, measurable concentrations of CBD were identified in all organs. For the aqueous formulation, tissue concentrations of CBD were below the limit of quantification. Conclusions: Administering oral CBD in a lipid formulation was associated with an increase in its gastrointestinal absorption, as well as an attenuation of the relationship between its absorption and features of the gut microbiome.
Tunable Optical Filter Based on Thin Film Lithium Niobate Photonic Crystals
Authors: Wang Luyao , Yang Tianyu , Feng Haolei , Zhang Shengya , Liu Jianguo , Zhao Zeping
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose a tunable optical filter with a high Q factor based on photonic crystal technology, achieving a Q factor of 442.85 using thin film lithium niobate technology. By proportionally adjusting the dimensions of the unit structure, this filter enables coarse tuning across the 1520–1570 nm range (C band). Furthermore, by utilizing the thermo-optic effect of lithium niobate, we can achieve fine-tuning of the optical filter within a temperature range of 300 K to 600 K, allowing for a center wavelength tuning capability of up to 3.7 nm. This design not only enhances the filter’s performance but also broadens its potential applications in optical communication and optical signal processing.
The Dual Role of Zinc in Spinach Metabolism: Beneficial × Toxic
Authors: Zemanová Veronika , Pavlíková Daniela , Novák Milan , Hnilička František
Published: December 2024

The effects of zinc (Zn) on the physiology of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) were investigated in a pot experiment with increasing Zn contents in the horticultural substrate (0, 75, 150, and 300 mg Zn kg−1). Interactions among nutrients in the substrate solution affected plant vitality, biomass yield, and nutrient content in plants. The water-soluble Zn fraction increased with the Zn dose, rising from 0.26 mg kg−1 in the Control to 0.98 mg kg−1 in the Zn300 treatment. The most pronounced effects of elevated Zn content were observed for Ca, Mg, and Mn. In spinach, the dual role of Zn was evident through its impact on yield, particularly regarding aboveground biomass. The positive effects of Zn doses up to 150 mg kg−1 were supported by the tolerance index (TI). In contrast, the 300 mg kg−1 Zn dose exhibited toxic effects, resulting in a 33.3% decrease in the yield of aboveground biomass and a TI value of 0.7. The effects of Zn on nutrient content in aboveground biomass varied with the dose, and the relationship between Zn and P, Fe, Mn, Ca, and K content confirmed a correlation. The toxic effect of the Zn300 treatment was evidenced by a decrease in Ca, Cu, and Fe contents. Additionally, the results of the Zn300 treatment indicated a negative effect on the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments and photosynthesis, likely due to induced oxidative stress. The production of oxalic acid also suggested a toxic effect of the highest Zn dose on spinach.
Cypsela and Pappus Morphology and Their Significance for the Taxonomic Delimitation of the Genus Saussurea DC. s.str. and Its Allied Genera (Asteraceae)
Authors: Abid Rubina , Munir Muhammad , Riaz Sana , Qaiser Muhammad
Published: December 2024

The cypsela and pappus macro- and micromorphological features of 32 taxa belonging to Saussurea DC. s.str., Lipschitziella Kamelin, Himalaiella Raab-Straube, Dolomiaea DC., Aucklandia Falc., Frolovia (DC.) Lipsch. and Shangwua Yu J. Wang, Raab-Straube, Susanna, and J.Quan Liu of the tribe Cardueae (Asteraceae) were studied through light and scanning electron microscope to assess the cypsela features of the studied taxa from Pakistan and Kashmir. The cypsela morphological data could also help to discover the taxonomic relationship, as there were no specific and detailed reports available of all the taxa reported from the area under consideration. Various cypsela features, like pappus series, cypsela shape, and surface patterns, were found to be the most significant characters for the taxonomic delimitation of Saussurea s.l. The genus Saussurea s.str. was delimited from its allied genera due to having biseriate pappus, while the remaining genera pappus were either uniseriate or multiseriate; among these genera, Dolomiaea was characterized due to having multiseriate pappus, while the remaining genera, such as Lipschitziella, Himalaiella, Aucklandia, Shangwua, and Frolovia, had uniseriate pappus. Furthermore, these genera could be delimited based on cypsela shape and surface patterns. Similar to the generic delimitation, cypsela micro and macromorphological characters were also found to be useful for specific delimitation within the studied genera. Most of the cypsela morphological variables when analyzed numerically also proved the taxonomic affiliation for most of the taxa of the genus Saussurea and its allied genera. Similarly, these cypsela features could be well correlated with the gross morphological and molecular evidence at the generic and partially for the specific and infraspecific delimitation of Saussurea s.l. from Pakistan and Kashmir.
Comparing Results from 2-D and 3-D Phenotyping Systems for Soybean Root System Architecture: A ‘Comparison of Apples and Oranges’?
Authors: Belzile François , Seck Waldiodio , Sanghera Prabhjot , Han Liwen , Dutilleul Pierre
Published: December 2024

Typically, root system architecture (RSA) is not visible, and realistically, high-throughput methods for RSA trait phenotyping should capture key features of developing root systems in solid substrates in 3D. In a published 2-D study using thin rhizoboxes, vermiculite as a growing medium, and photography for imaging, triplicates of 137 soybean cultivars were phenotyped for their RSA. In the transition to 3-D work using X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning and mineral soil, two research questions are addressed: (1) how different is the soybean RSA characterization between the two phenotyping systems; and (2) is a direct comparison of the results reliable? Prior to a full-scale study in 3D, we grew, in pots filled with sand, triplicates of the Casino and OAC Woodstock cultivars that had shown the most contrasting RSAs in the 2-D study, and CT scanned them at the V1 vegetative stage of development of the shoots. Differences between soybean cultivars in RSA traits, such as total root length and fractal dimension (FD), observed in 2D, can change in 3D. In particular, in 2D, the mean FD values are 1.48 ± 0.16 (OAC Woodstock) vs. 1.31 ± 0.16 (Casino), whereas in 3D, they are 1.52 ± 0.14 (OAC Woodstock) vs. 1.24 ± 0.13 (Casino), indicating variations in RSA complexity.
Differentiation of Amaranthus Species and Estimation of Their Polyphenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Potential Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Terzieva Svetoslava , Grozeva Neli , Tzanova Milena , Veleva Petya , Gerdzhikova Mariya , Atanassova Stefka
Published: December 2024

Amaranthus species are rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and other nutrients and have various health benefits. The genus is taxonomically difficult due to the high phenotypic plasticity and the spontaneous interspecies introgression and hybridization between species. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the possibilities of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for the taxonomic differentiation of some of the species common in Bulgaria and estimate their polyphenolic compounds. Tested samples were collected from six Bulgarian floristic regions: Amaranthus albus L., A. blitum L., A. deflexus L., A. hybridus L., and A. retroflexus L. were studied. The NIR spectra of dried and ground leaf and stalk samples were measured by NIRQuest 512 (region 900–1700 nm) using a fiber-optic probe. Soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA) was used to develop the classification models and PLS regression for the quantitative determination of their polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant potential. There were statistically significant differences in the measured values of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant potential among the tested species. NIRS allowed an accurate determination of these parameters. The performance of developed SIMCA models for the discrimination of species was very high. The precision of determination varied from 98.2 to 100%, and the total accuracy was 98.34%. The results show successful differentiation of the taxonomic species.
Induction of Salt Stress Tolerance in Wheat Seeds by Parental Treatment with Salicylic Acid
Authors: Yan Lei , Jiang Xue , Zhang Yuman , Dong Yongwen , Zhao Can , Xu Ke , Huo Zhongyang , Wang Weiling
Published: December 2024

Soil salinization is an important factor that limits crop production. The effects of spraying salicylic acid (SA) during the grain-filling stage on the salt tolerance of progeny seeds in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were investigated in this study. The results showed that spraying SA during the grain-filling stage significantly increased the grain weight and yield of wheat plants. Meanwhile, the seeds from the SA-treated plants showed a higher germination rate, length and dry mass of the coleoptile and radicle, and a lower mean germination time compared to the seeds of water-treated plants under the salt germination condition, indicating that SA pretreatment during the grain-filling stage could effectively improve the salt tolerance of progeny seeds in wheat. SA pretreatment significantly increased the activities of amylases and the respiration rate, accompanied by a decrease in starch content, and a higher accumulation in the level of soluble sugars and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the germinated seedlings compared to the water pretreatment under salt stress. In addition, SA pretreatment obviously alleviated the increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) release rate in seedlings by activating antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD)) under salt stress. Moreover, the seedlings of the SA-treated plants showed lower Na+ and higher K+ contents compared to the seeds of water-treated plants under salt stress. The results of this study indicate that spraying SA during the grain-filling stage improves the capacity of offspring seeds to maintain osmotic and ion balance and redox homeostasis under salt stress, thereby conferring salt tolerance to the wheat seeds.
In Vitro Inducted Tetraploid Elsholtzia splendens Nakai ex F. Maek. Alters Polyphenol Species and Synthesis
Authors: Liu Jie , Yang Dang , Li Xin , Jin Zexin , Li Junmin
Published: December 2024

Elsholtzia splendens Nakai ex F. Maek. has been employed in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia. Nevertheless, the small size and the paucity of research on its pharmacological effects have restricted its extensive utilisation in clinical medicine. Polyploid breeding represents an effective method for the rapid enhancement of plant biomass and metabolites. In this study, the most effective in vitro method for inducing tetraploid formation was identified as axillary buds treated in a solution of colchicine at a concentration of 1% for 24 h. Meanwhile, a comparison between tetraploids and diploids yielded two significant findings: (1) The presence of 6-zonocolpate and 8-zonocolpate pollen grains can be used as distinguishing characteristics for diploid and tetraploid, respectively. (2) Genome duplication resulted in alterations to the polyphenol species and synthesis pathway in E. splendens. The accumulation of wogonin, oroxylin A, baicalin, chrysin, acacetin and related derivatives was markedly greater in tetraploid plants, whereas apigenin, naringenin, scutellarein and related derivatives were found to accumulate to a greater extent in diploid plants. It is noteworthy that wogonin and oroxylin A were uniquely detected in tetraploids, indicating that the generated tetraploids may harbor novel pharmacological value. The findings not only provided new insights into the metabolic mechanism of polyploidisation but also established a foundation for the selection and breeding of novel genetic resources of E. splendens.
Non-Native Flora of the Mediterranean Lesvos Island (East Aegean, Greece): Floristic Analysis, Traits, and Assessment
Authors: Galanidis Alexandros , Bazos Ioannis , Dimitrakopoulos Panayiotis G.
Published: December 2024

A checklist of Lesvos Island’s non-native vascular flora is presented. Through the literature and a roadside survey, we recorded 187 non-native plant taxa, representing 12% of the total regional flora. A total of 37 taxa were reported for the first time for Lesvos, including three taxa that are also new to the Greek non-native flora. The dominant families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Poaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Solanaceae. Amaranthus, Oxalis, Solanum, Opuntia, and Prunus were the most species rich genera. Most taxa were neophytes, naturalized and perennial, while phanerophytes and therophytes were the predominant life forms. Animal (insect) pollination was the principal pollination mode, whereas the main dispersal mechanism was zoochory, with most taxa forming a capsule. The majority of the taxa preferred agricultural and ruderal habitats and originated from the Americas and Asia. The primary introduction pathway was escape from confinement, concerning taxa introduced for ornamental and agricultural purposes.
Photosynthetic Activity Measured In Situ in Microalgae Cultures Grown in Pilot-Scale Raceway Ponds
Authors: Masojídek Jiří , Štěrbová Karolína , Robles Carnero Victor A. , Torzillo Giuseppe , Gómez-Serrano Cintia , Cicchi Bernardo , Câmara Manoel João Artur , Silva Benavides Ana Margarita , Barceló-Villalobos Marta , Pozo Dengra Joaquín , Ördög Vince , Gómez Pinchetti Juan Luis , Acién Fernándéz Francisco Gabriel , Figueroa Félix L.
Published: December 2024

The microalga Scenedesmus sp. (Chlorophyceae) was cultured in a raceway pond (RWP) placed in a greenhouse. The objective of this case study was to monitor the photosynthesis performance and selected physicochemical variables (irradiance, temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration) of microalgae cultures in situ at various depths of RWP. The data of actual photochemical yield Y(II), the electron transport rate monitored by in vivo chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic oxygen production both in situ and ex situ revealed that (i) even in diluted cultures (0.6 g DW L−1), the active photic layer in the culture was only about 1 cm, indicating that most of the culture was “photosynthetically” inactive; (ii) the mechanism of non-photochemical quenching may not be fast enough to respond once the cells move from the surface to the deeper layers; and (iii) even when cells were exposed to a high dissolved oxygen concentration of about 200% sat and higher, the cultures retained a relatively high Y(II) > 0.35 when monitored in situ. The presented work can be used as exemplary data to optimize the growth regime of microalgae cultures in large-scale RWPs by understanding the interplay between photosynthetic activity, culture depth and cell concentration.
Study on the Genus Drymaria (Caryophyllaceae)—A New Species from North-East India
Authors: Arya Sindhu , Singh Harsh , Vishnu Kalarikkal Walsan , Iamonico Duilio
Published: December 2024

A new species of Drymaria from the Kohima District (Nagaland of North-East India) is described and illustrated based on both molecular data (the ITS region of nuclear DNA) and morphometric analyses (clustering, PCA, DA, and MANOVA). The new species resembles D. cordata but differs with respect to the shape of the sepal (oblong, incurved at the margin vs. lanceolate, not incurved at the margin), petals (oblong or linear vs. ovate–lanceolate), and bract (foliaceous, glabrous, non-prominent vs. non-foliaceous, pubescent, and prominent). For nomenclatural purposes, the typification of Drymaria villosa by Duke (in 1961) was corrected according to Art. 9.10 of the Shenzhen Code.
PGPB Isolated from Drought-Tolerant Plants Help Wheat Plants to Overcome Osmotic Stress
Authors: Pishchik Veronika N. , Chizhevskaya Elena P. , Chebotar Vladimir K. , Mirskaya Galina V. , Khomyakov Yuriy V. , Vertebny Vitaliy E. , Kononchuk Pavel Y. , Kudryavtcev Dmitriy V. , Bortsova Olga A. , Lapenko Nina G. , Tikhonovich Igor A.
Published: December 2024

The aim of this research was to study the effect of plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) isolated from the drought-tolerant plants camel thorn (Alhagi pseudoalhagi (M.Bieb.) Fisch) and white pigweed (Chenopodium album L.) on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants cv. Lenigradskaya 6, growing under hydroponic conditions and osmotic stress (generated by 12% polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG)). Based on the assumption that plants create a unique microbiome that helps them overcome various stresses, we hypothesized that bacteria isolated from drought-tolerant plants may assist cultivated wheat plants in coping with drought stress. PGPB were isolated from seeds and leaves of plants and identified as Bacillus spp. (strains Cap 07D, Cap 09D, and App 11D); Paenibacillus sp. (Cap 286); and Arthrobacter sp. (Cap 03D). All bacteria produced different phytohormones such as indole acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), and gibberellic acid (GAS3) and were capable of stimulating wheat growth under normal and osmotic stress conditions. All PGPB reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, increased the total chlorophyll content by increasing chlorophyll a, and modulated wheat hormone homeostasis and CAT and POX activities under osmotic conditions. Selected strains can be promising candidates for the mitigating of the drought stress of wheat plants.
Sugar Content in Arbutus unedo L. Fruit and Its Relationship with Climatic and Edaphic Characteristics
Authors: Chá Luciano Chá , Ressurreição Sandrine , Oliveira Libânia , Santos Sandra , Nunes Manuel , Vidal Maria , Varejão Jorge , Gomes Filomena
Published: December 2024

This research was carried out as part of a program for the conservation and improvement of the strawberry tree. Accessions’ prospecting was conducted in different Portuguese provenances. Accessions (204) were identified, and mature fruits were collected in autumn. The sugar contents in the fruit pulp (glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose) were analyzed by HPLC and the correlation between the average sugar content, climatic classification (Thornthwaite Method and Xerothermic Index), and edaphic characteristics was investigated. The predominant sugar was fructose, which ranged from 7.89 ± 0.55% to 17.01 ± 1.46% (f.w.), respectively, under an Attenuated Thermomediterranean climate at limestone-derived soil and an Accentuated Mesomediterranean climate at schist-derived soil. The lowest sugar contents, linked to a reduction in photosynthesis, were found: (1) in the north, despite soil water availability, due to the low temperature, high precipitation and short photoperiod, particularly during the fruit maturation (autumn); (2) in the south, due to the excessive number of dry days, linked to low soil water availability during the active growth period, particularly at limestone zones prone to water retention. The relationship found between the total sugar content and climate classification by the Xerothermic Index allows to enhance fruit production, advise on the establishment of new orchards and restore natural areas.
Evaluating the Impact of Phosphorus and Solid Oxygen Fertilization on Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.): A Two-Year Field Study
Authors: Shohag Md. Jahidul Islam , Máximo Salgado Elena , Curtis Gluck Marina , Liu Guodong
Published: December 2024

The snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is highly sensitive to both phosphorus (P) deficiency and hypoxic stress, which together can significantly hinder plant growth, nutrient uptake, and yield; however, limited information exists on the effect of P and oxygen (O2) fertilization to alleviate these stresses and enhance yield. A two-year field experiment assessed the effects of P and O2 fertilization on plant growth, pod yield, and P uptake in acidic sandy soil. Using a randomized complete block design with four replications, we tested five P rates (0, 45, 90, 135, and 179 kg ha−1 of phosphorus pentoxide, P2O5) in the form of triple superphosphate (TSP) along with two rates (0 and 45 kg ha−1) of solid O2 fertilizer as calcium peroxide (CaO2). Phosphorus and O2 fertilizers improved plant growth and pod yield, with the highest yield from the combination of 135 kg ha−1 P2O5 and 45 kg ha−1 CaO2. Pearson correlation analysis indicated strong associations between plant growth, pod yield, and nutrient accumulation. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted notable seasonal differences in snap bean and soil characteristics. This study provides essential insights into the use of O2 fertilizers as a cost-effective approach to mitigate hypoxia, enhance P use efficiency, and improve yield in snap bean. Our findings may inspire the development of sustainable nutrient protocols for high-quality snap bean production and serve as a foundation for similar applications in other crops.
Coinhibitory Effects of Resveratrol- and Protopanaxadiol-Enriched Rice Seed Extracts Against Melanogenic Activities in Melan-a Cells
Authors: Monmai Chaiwat , Kuk Yong-In , Baek So-Hyeon
Published: December 2024

In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the combined antimelanogenic effects of resveratrol- and protopanaxadiol (PPD)-enriched rice seed extracts (DJ526 and DJ-PPD) in melan-a cells. The treatment antioxidant capacity was evaluated using the ABTS radical scavenging method. TR_3 (70% [wight (w)/w] of DJ526 and 30% [w/w] of DJ-PPD) markedly increased the antioxidant activity at a level similar to that of DJ526 and DJ-PPD alone. The antimelanogenic activities in melan-a cells were evaluated after co-culturing of treatments at the concentration of 100 μg/mL. The in vitro melan-a cell experiment showed that treatment with the DJ526 and DJ-PPD mixture significantly reduced the cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content; suppressed the expression of melanogenesis-related genes and proteins; decreased the number and size of melanin-containing cells; upregulated phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and protein kinase B expression levels; and suppressed the expression of p-p38 MAPK. These results show that DJ-PPD does not interfere with the antioxidant and antimelanogeneic activities of DJ526 but enhances the antioxidant and antimelanogeneic activities of DJ526. These findings indicate the potential of resveratrol- and PPD-enriched rice seeds as novel agents for controlling hyperpigmentation.
Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Tetracycline Adsorption: Experimental Insights and DFT Study
Authors: Alshahateet Solhe F. , Al-Trawneh Salah A. , Er-rajy Mohammed , Zerrouk Mohammed , Azzaoui Khalil , Al-Tawarh Waad M. , Hammouti Belkheir , Salghi Rachid , Sabbahi Rachid , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Rhazi Larbi
Published: December 2024

An eco-friendly approach was used to fabricate zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using thyme, Thymus vulgaris L., leaf extract. The produced ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by XRD and SEM analysis. The ZnO NPs showed remarkable adsorption efficiency for tetracycline (TC) from water systems, with a maximum removal rate of 95% under optimal conditions (10 ppm, 0.10 g of ZnO NPs, pH 8.5, and 30 min at 25 °C). The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-2nd-order model, and the adsorption process fitted the Temkin isotherm model. The process was spontaneous, endothermic, and primarily chemisorptive. Quantum chemistry calculations, utilizing electrostatic potential maps and HOMO-LUMO gap analysis, have confirmed the stability of the TC clusters. This study suggests that green synthesis using plant extracts presents an opportunity to generate nanoparticles with properties suitable for real-world applications.
Green Manure Rotation Combined with Biochar Application Improves Yield and Economic Stability of Continuous Cropping of Peppers in Southwest China
Authors: Zhang Meng , Liu Yanling , Gu Xiaofeng , Wei Quanquan , Liu Lingling , Gou Jiulan
Published: December 2024

Crop rotation is widely recognized as a key strategy to mitigate the adverse effects associated with continuous cropping. Recent studies have demonstrated that biochar has a significant potential for preventing and controlling these challenges. However, the ameliorative effects of green manure rotation and biochar application on continuous pepper cultivation in the karst mountainous regions of Southwest China remain largely unexplored. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted from 2020 to 2023 to investigate the effects of green manure rotation and biochar application on the continuous cropping of peppers. The experiment consisted of five treatments: CK (no green manure and no biochar), WP (winter fallow and conventional pepper production with chemical fertilization), GP (green manure and pepper rotation, the amount of fresh green manure returned to the field was about 15 t·ha−1), WP + B (winter fallow and pepper rotation with 1500 kg·ha−1 of biochar applied during the pepper season), and GP + B (green manure and pepper rotation with 1500 kg·ha−1 of biochar applied during the pepper season, the amount of fresh green manure returned to the field was about 15 t·ha−1). The results showed that all the improved measures (GP, WP + B, GP + B) increased the yield of fresh pepper and dry pepper by 26.97–72.98% and 20.96–65.70%, respectively, and the yield of dry pod pepper increased by 14.69–40.63% and 21.44–73.29% in 2021 to 2023, respectively, and significantly improved the yield stability and sustainability of continuous cropping of peppers compared with WP treatments. In addition, green manure rotation or biochar application alone or in combination enhanced the nutritional quality of pepper fruits by increasing the content of free amino acids (8.62–19.42%), reducing sugars (15.30–34.62%) and vitamin C (26.19–43.52), and decreasing the nitrate content (26.93–40.17%). Furthermore, the application of green manure rotation or biochar alone or in combination significantly improved the absorption of nitrogen (23.73–60.23%), phosphorus (18.12–61.71%), and potassium (20.57–61.48%) nutrients in the continuous cropping of peppers, which contributed to the improvement of fertilizer use efficiency. Notably, GP + B treatment not only improved the yield and quality of continuous cropping peppers but also resulted in higher production value and net income compared to the GP and WP + B treatments. In conclusion, the combination of green manure rotation and biochar application represents an effective strategy for mitigating the challenges of continuous cropping in pepper cultivation within the karst mountainous regions of Southwest China.
Applications and Prospects of CRISPR/Cas9 Technology in the Breeding of Major Tropical Crops
Authors: Zhou Lixia , Zeng Xianhai , Yang Yaodong , Li Rui , Zhao Zhihao
Published: December 2024

China is a major producer of tropical crops globally, boasting rich varieties and diverse functions. Tropical crops account for two-thirds of the plant species in this country. Many crops and their products, such as oil palm, rubber, banana, sugarcane, cassava, and papaya are well known to people. Most of these products are irreplaceable and possess special functions. They not only supply important raw materials for people’s daily life and for industrial and agricultural production but also contribute to the economic growth in the tropical and subtropical regions of China. However, the modern molecular breeding of these crops is severely hampered by their biological characteristics and genetic complexity. Issues such as polyploidy, heterozygosity, vegetative propagation, long juvenile periods, and large plant sizes result in time consuming, low efficiency, and slow progress in conventional breeding of the major tropical crops. The development of genome-editing technologies has brought a new way in tropical crops breeding. As an emerging gene-editing technology, the CRISPR-Cas9 system has been widely used in plants, adopted for its higher targeting efficiency, versatility, and ease of usage. This approach has been applied in oil palm, rubber, banana, sugarcane, cassava, and papaya. This review summarized the delivery patterns, mutation detection, and application of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in tropical crop breeding, discussed the existing problems, and addressed prospects for future applications in this field, providing references to relevant studies.
Preparation of Flame-Retardant Glass Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy by Vacuum-Assisted Resin Infusion Process with Deep Eutectic Point Curing Agent
Authors: Wang Changzeng , Wang Jihui , Li Pengyu , Xu Chengxin , Li Shuxin , Ni Aiqing
Published: December 2024

Enhancing the flame resistance of fiber-reinforced epoxy resins will broaden its potential applications. However, the inclusion of a flame retardant in epoxy resins with a curing agent shortens the process, posing a challenge for the production of flame-retardant composites. In this work, the process performance of flame-retardant epoxy resins was improved by using deep eutectic solvents (DES) as the curing agent. The gelation time and viscosity curves show that a flame-retardant epoxy with DES has excellent processability at 60 °C with a viscosity of 430 mPa∙s. Then, the manufacturing and experimental investigation of the flame-retardant epoxy (E-M) and composite (E-MC) were conducted. The fire retardancy of E-M is rated V0 according to the UL-94 test, and its limiting oxygen index (LOI) value is 36.8%. The mechanical performance of the epoxy resins is also slightly improved by the addition of the flame retardant. E-MC was successfully prepared by vacuum assisted resin infusion (VARI) with a V2 rating in the UL94 test, and extraordinary mechanical properties were achieved. The remarkable flame retardancy and mechanical properties of both the matrix and the composites demonstrate that the DES curing agent can homogenously disperse in and cure the epoxy resins. This work provides an inexpensive yet effective solution for manufacturing flame retardant composites by VARI, enabling the application of a range of flame retardants to composite materials.
Biodegradable Gelatin–Carrageenan Sponges: High-Potential Functional Nasal Packs for Efficient Secretome Delivery
Authors: Razali Rabiatul Adawiyah , Muhammad Firdaus Fairuz Izan , Fauzi Mh Busra , Mobarak Nadhratun Naiim , Aminuddin Saim , Lokanathan Yogeswaran
Published: December 2024

Nasal packing is a critical procedure in postoperative care and trauma management aimed at controlling bleeding, providing structural support, and promoting tissue healing. However, conventional nasal packs often lead to discomfort, infection risks, and secondary tissue damage. To address these challenges, this study explores the potential use of biodegradable and biocompatible gelatin–carrageenan composite scaffolds as an alternative nasal packing material. Five compositions of gelatin–carrageenan scaffolds (ratios 10:0, 7:3, 5:5, 3:7, and 0:10) were fabricated and evaluated for physicochemical properties, hemocompatibility, and cytocompatibility. Results suggest that balanced ratios, such as 7:3 and 5:5, may provide a combination of structural integrity, improved biocompatibility, and controlled degradation, making them a potential candidate for nasal packing applications. The scaffolds exhibited low cytotoxicity and reasonable blood compatibility, which could reduce the risks associated with conventional materials. While these findings are promising, further in vivo studies are necessary to validate the efficacy and safety of these scaffolds in clinical settings. If proven effective, gelatin–carrageenan scaffolds may help address some of the limitations of conventional nasal packing materials and improve postoperative care outcomes.
Study on Fabrication and Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan Nanofibers Created from Aqueous Solution with Acetic Acid and Ethanol by the Electrospinning Method
Authors: Vu Thi Hong Nhung , Morozkina Svetlana N. , Olekhnovich Roman O. , Podshivalov Aleksandr V. , Uspenskaya Mayya V.
Published: December 2024

The development of nanofibers with incorporated biologically active molecules with a targeted mode of action is a current research trend. Potential materials for the development of such systems include poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and chitosan (CS) nanofibers, which are traditionally fabricated by the electrospinning of aqueous solutions of these polymers with acetic acid. To improve drug integration, ethanol was added to the binary-solvent system. This results in several important data: noticeable shifts in the solvent system’s solubility parameter, the interaction of the various component forces, and optical and rheological properties of the PVA-CS solution. The use of ethanol in the electrospun solution also contributes to adjusting the solubility parameters of the solution in the Teas graph, maintaining the “fh − fd” in the optimal region for the fabrication of PVA-CS nanofibers. Increasing the efficiency of PVA-CS nanofiber fabrication by electrospinning is quite difficult due to the requirements of solution parameters, technological parameters, and environmental parameters; however, this efficiency was increased in this work by 2 to 3 times with a more optimal PVA-CS nanofiber morphology. These results demonstrate that aqueous solution containing 4% PVA, 3% CS, 15% ethanol, and 45% acetic acid is optimal for increasing the nanofiber fabrication productivity, improving the morphology and diameter of PVA-CS nanofibers without changing in chemical bonds. The XRD spectrum revealed that the alterations in the crystal lattice and diameter of the PVA-CS nanofibers led to the variation in their thermal and tensile properties.
Investigating the Relationship Between the Emulsification Parameters and Physical–Chemical Properties of Poly(D,L-lactic acid) Particles for Dermal Fillers
Authors: Su Chen-Ying , Chang You-Cheng , Lu Bo-Rong , Fang Hsu-Wei
Published: December 2024

Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) particles have been applied as dermal fillers for soft-tissue augmentation because they can induce foreign-body reactions, resulting in fibroblast proliferation and collagen formation. Although PLLA and PDLLA fillers are safe and biocompatible, clinical complications such as nodules and granulomas have been reported, possibly due to incomplete reconstitution. PDLLA particles were prepared via emulsification in this study, and three stirring speeds were investigated when adding PDLLA into carboxymethyl cellulose solution. The particle size, molecular weight of PDLLA, optical rotation, pH value, osmotic pressure, and reconstitution time were analyzed. A rabbit dorsal ear model was established to evaluate the soft-tissue augmentation of a commercial PDLLA filler. The results demonstrated that the stirring speed affected the particle size, but not other physical–chemical properties of the PDLLA particles. All the PDLLA particles were reconstituted in less than 7 min, which is faster than the process for the other commercial PDLLA dermal filler products. In addition, the PDLLA particles could induce inflammation and fibroblast proliferation. Although the PDLLA particles generated in this study have not yet been investigated in vivo, the results demonstrated here suggest their potential for application as dermal fillers.