bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levetiracetam Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in a Large Cohort of Korean Epileptic Patients
Authors: Ha Changhee , Lee Hyun-Seung , Joo Eun Yeon , Shon Young-Min , Hong Seung Bong , Seo Dae-Won , Lee Soo-Youn
Published: August 2021

Levetiracetam is a new antiepileptic drug (AED) used for treating and preventing partial or generalized seizures. The usefulness of levetiracetam therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is related to inter- or intra-individual pharmacokinetic variability, drug interactions, and patient noncompliance. We aimed to investigate the levetiracetam TDM status in Korean epilepsy patients. Serum trough levetiracetam concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in 710 samples from 550 patients. The median (range) daily and weight-adjusted levetiracetam doses were 1500 (20–5000) mg and 25.5 (3.03–133.0) mg/kg, respectively. Patients on levetiracetam monotherapy constituted only 19.5% of the population, while 30.1% were on co-medication with valproate and 56.0% with enzyme-inducing AEDs (EIAEDs). Observed levetiracetam concentrations were widely distributed, ranging 0.8–95 mg/L, with a median of 17.3 mg/L. Levetiracetam concentrations were therapeutic, supra-therapeutic, and sub-therapeutic in 58.5% (n = 393), 11.6% (n = 78), and 29.9% (n = 201) of samples, respectively. There was a strong correlation between weight-adjusted levetiracetam dosage and concentrations (ρ = 0.6896, p < 0.0001). In this large-scale clinical study, a large inter-individual difference in levetiracetam pharmacokinetics was observed, and levetiracetam concentrations were influenced by EIAEDs. For individual dose adjustments and monitoring compliance, routine levetiracetam TDM is needed in epilepsy patients.
Pulmonary Delivery of Curcumin and Beclomethasone Dipropionate in a Multicomponent Nanosuspension for the Treatment of Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Casula Luca , Lai Francesco , Pini Elena , Valenti Donatella , Sinico Chiara , Cardia Maria Cristina , Marceddu Salvatore , Ailuno Giorgia , Fadda Anna Maria
Published: August 2021

Curcumin has shown a potential extraordinary activity as an add-on ingredient in asthma treatment, due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory mechanism of action. However, its low water solubility and bioavailability lead to a poor therapeutic effect, which can be overcome by its formulation as nanocrystals. The aim of this study was to prepare a multicomponent formulation for the delivery of curcumin (CUR) and beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) into the lungs as water-based nanosuspensions (NS). Single component formulations (CUR-NS, BDP-NS) and a multicomponent formulation (CUR+BDP-NS) were prepared through a wet ball media milling technique, using P188 as a non-toxic stabilizer. Characterization was carried out in terms of size, size distribution, zeta potential, nanocrystals morphology, and solid-state properties. Moreover, the inhalation delivery efficiency was studied with Next Generation Impactor (NGI, Apparatus E Ph. Eu). CUR-NS was optimized and showed a long-term stability and improved nanocrystals apparent solubility. The three formulations exhibited a nanocrystal mean diameter in the range of 200–240 nm and a homogenous particle size distribution. Aggregation or sedimentation phenomena were not observed in the multicomponent formulation on 90 days storage at room temperature. Finally, the nebulization tests of the three samples showed optimal aerodynamic parameters and MMAD < 5 µm.
Ectopic Odorant Receptor Responding to Flavor Compounds: Versatile Roles in Health and Disease
Authors: Tong Tao , Wang Yanan , Kang Seong-Gook , Huang Kunlun
Published: August 2021

Prompted by the ground-breaking discovery of the rodent odorant receptor (OR) gene family within the olfactory epithelium nearly 30 years ago, followed by that of OR genes in cells of the mammalian germ line, and potentiated by the identification of ORs throughout the body, our appreciation for ORs as general chemoreceptors responding to odorant compounds in the regulation of physiological or pathophysiological processes continues to expand. Ectopic ORs are now activated by a diversity of flavor compounds and are involved in diverse physiological phenomena varying from adipogenesis to myogenesis to hepatic lipid accumulation to serotonin secretion. In this review, we outline the key biological functions of the ectopic ORs responding to flavor compounds and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We also discuss research opportunities for utilizing ectopic ORs as therapeutic strategies in the treatment of human disease as well as challenges to be overcome in the future. The recognition of the potent function, signaling pathway, and pharmacology of ectopic ORs in diverse tissues and cell types, coupled with the fact that they belong to G protein-coupled receptors, a highly druggable protein family, unequivocally highlight the potential of ectopic ORs responding to flavor compounds, especially food-derived odorant compounds, as a promising therapeutic strategy for various diseases.
Exploring Pharmacists’ Roles during the 2019–2020 Australian Black Summer Bushfires
Authors: Moss Alexandra , Green Toni , Moss Simon , Waghorn Janique , Bushell Mary-Jessimine
Published: August 2021

Background: Australians are no strangers to sudden natural disasters, such as bushfires. The effects of a natural disaster can devastate local communities and health care services. Currently, limited research has explored the role of the pharmacist during a natural disaster. This study explores the role of the Australian pharmacist during the 2019/2020 Black Summer Bushfires. Methods: Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with ten community pharmacists who worked through the Black Summer Bushfires whose daily tasks and work environment were directly affected by the bushfires. Thematic analysis using NVivo®, a qualitative data analysis software was conducted. Results: Analysis of the transcripts generated six main themes: collaboration; trauma and mental health; power and communication; acute presentations; triaging and emergency prescribing. Pharmacists worked in close collaboration with doctors and members of the local community. They provided triaging services, timely health advice about chronic health problems, and managed acute issues, including wound and burn management and mental health support in traumatic conditions, sometimes without power and communication amenities. The challenges presented to pharmacists during the bushfires warranted creative and flexible approaches at times. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for mental health support and training for pharmacists, provisional prescribing privileges, and a clearer set of contingency regulations and legislation related to emergencies and natural disasters. Further research is warranted to gain greater insight into the roles undertaken by Australian pharmacists during natural disasters and their autonomy in decision making processes during such times.
Use of Face-to-Face Assessment Methods in E-Learning—An Example of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) Test
Authors: Sepp Kristiina , Volmer Daisy
Published: August 2021

The spread of COVID-19 and social-distancing rules have increased the need for alternative learning environments with a focus on e-learning platforms. The objective of this study was to assess whether and to what extent the transition from traditional learning and assessment environment to the e-setting impacts the knowledge and skills acquired by students and their satisfaction with new e-solutions of taking the OSCE test. The study compared the results of three face-to-face (2018–2019) and one electronically conducted (2021) OSCE tests, as well as students’ feedback on the content and organization of the tests. For data analysis the one-way ANOVA test and post hoc multiple comparisons were used. The results demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of and students’ satisfaction with OSCE tests in the Zoom environment. However, more focus on communication techniques is required in a remote communication environment to better cover all patient health-related and drug communication aspects. There were identified differences between undergraduate students and practicing assistant pharmacists in assessing patients’ health problems and providing corresponding counseling. This result points to the need to implement the continuous development of patient-centered counseling techniques in the lifelong learning of pharmacists and the need to use innovative digital solutions, if applicable.
Clinical Pharmacy in Psychiatry: Towards Promoting Clinical Expertise in Psychopharmacology
Authors: Javelot Hervé , Gitahy Falcao Faria Clara , Vandenberghe Frederik , Dizet Sophie , Langrée Bastien , Le Maout Mathilde , Straczek Céline , Egron Adeline , Erb Alexis , Sujol Guillaume , Yrondi Antoine , Weibel Sébastien , Vincent Philippe D. , Meyer Guillaume , Hingray Coraline
Published: August 2021

Although clinical pharmacy is a discipline that emerged in the 1960s, the question of precisely how pharmacists can play a role in therapeutic optimization remains unanswered. In the field of mental health, psychiatric pharmacists are increasingly involved in medication reconciliation and therapeutic patient education (or psychoeducation) to improve medication management and enhance medication adherence, respectively. However, psychiatric pharmacists must now assume a growing role in team-based models of care and engage in shared expertise in psychopharmacology in order to truly invest in therapeutic optimization of psychotropics. The increased skills in psychopharmacology and expertise in psychotherapeutic drug monitoring can contribute to future strengthening of the partnership between psychiatrists and psychiatric pharmacists. We propose a narrative review of the literature in order to show the relevance of a clinical pharmacist specializing in psychiatry. With this in mind, herein we will address: (i) briefly, the areas considered the basis of the deployment of clinical pharmacy in mental health, with medication reconciliation, therapeutic education of the patient, as well as the growing involvement of clinical pharmacists in the multidisciplinary reflection on pharmacotherapeutic decisions; (ii) in more depth, we present data concerning the use of therapeutic drug monitoring and shared expertise in psychopharmacology between psychiatric pharmacists and psychiatrists. These last two points are currently in full development in France through the deployment of Resource and Expertise Centers in PsychoPharmacology (CREPP in French).
Genetic Diversity and Utilization of Cultivated Eggplant Germplasm in Varietal Improvement
Authors: Oladosu Yusuff , Rafii Mohd Y. , Arolu Fatai , Chukwu Samuel Chibuike , Salisu Monsuru Adekunle , Olaniyan Bolanle Amudalat , Fagbohun Ifeoluwa Kayode , Muftaudeen Taoheed Kolawole
Published: August 2021

Eggplant is the fifth economically most important vegetable in the Solanaceae family after tomato, potato, chili, and tobacco. Apart from the well-cultivated brinjal or aubergine eggplant (Solanum melongena L.), two other underutilized eggplant species, the African eggplant (S. macrocarpon L.) and the scarlet eggplant (S. aethiopicum L.), were also cultivated with local importance where the leaves and fruits are used for food and medicinal purposes. The major objectives of the eggplant breeding program are to improve fruit quality, increase yield performance through heterosis breeding, and introduce pest and disease resistances from wild relatives. Europe and Asia hold a wide collection of germplasm resources with significant potential for genetic improvement. While cultivated eggplant is susceptible to several fungi and bacteria, many wild relatives offer potential resistance to these pathogens. In this paper, we review the genetic resources and diversity of cultivated eggplant and its wild relatives. As a point of departure, we examine the economic importance, domestication, taxonomy characterization, and relationships of the crop and its wild relatives. The importance of evaluating and safeguarding wild relatives is highlighted, as crop wild relatives are highly underrepresented. A key section in this study is an overview dedicated to genetic resources, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, pre-breeding, and breeding for sustainable eggplant production.
Responses of Purple Rice Genotypes to Nitrogen and Zinc Fertilizer Application on Grain Yield, Nitrogen, Zinc, and Anthocyanin Concentration
Authors: Fongfon Suksan , Prom-u-thai Chanakan , Pusadee Tonapha , Jamjod Sansanee
Published: August 2021

Purple rice is recognized as a staple food for humans and as a source of anthocyanins and micronutrients such as zinc (Zn). This study examined how nitrogen (N) and Zn fertilizers affected grain yield and grain N, Zn, and anthocyanin concentration among purple rice genotypes. Six purple rice genotypes (PIZ, KAK, KS, KH-CMU, KDK, and HN) were grown under two levels of N, the optimum N60 (60 kg/ha) and high N180 (180 kg/ha) rates, along with three Zn application methods (no Zn application (Zn0), soil Zn application (ZnS; 50 kg ZnSO4/ha), and foliar Zn spray (ZnF; 0.5% ZnSO4 at the rate of 900 L/ha three times at heading, flowering, and early milk stages). Grain yield of the five purple rice landraces increased by 21–40% when increasing N from N60 to N180, although no response was found with HN. The higher N rate increased grain N concentration by 10–50% among the genotypes, while anthocyanin concentration increased by 100–110% in KAK and KS, and grain Zn was increased in KS. Applying ZnS increased grain yield by 16–94% but decreased anthocyanin and N concentrations compared to the control Zn0. Applying ZnF effectively increased grain Zn concentration by 40–140% in the genotypes without adversely impacting grain anthocyanin or N concentration. This study demonstrated that the appropriate management of N and Zn fertilizers for specific purple rice genotypes would be one way to increase productivity and grain N, Zn, and anthocyanin concentration.
Chemical Composition of Essential Oil from Flowers of Five Fragrant Dendrobium (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Robustelli della Cuna Francesco Saverio , Calevo Jacopo , Bazzicalupo Miriam , Sottani Cristina , Grignani Elena , Preda Stefania
Published: August 2021

A detailed chemical composition of Dendrobium essential oil has been only reported for a few main species. This article is the first to evaluate the essential oil composition, obtained by steam distillation, of five Indian Dendrobium species: Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl., Dendrobium harveyanum Rchb.f., and Dendrobium wardianum R.Warner (section Dendrobium), Dendrobium amabile (Lour.) O’Brien, and Dendrobium chrysanthum Wall. ex Lindl. (section Densiflora). We investigate fresh flower essential oil obtained by steam distillation, by GC/FID and GC/MS. Several compounds are identified, with a peculiar distribution in the species: Saturated hydrocarbons (range 2.19–80.20%), organic acids (range 0.45–46.80%), esters (range 1.03–49.33%), and alcohols (range 0.12–22.81%). Organic acids are detected in higher concentrations in D. chrysantum, D. wardianum, and D. harveyanum (46.80%, 26.89%, and 7.84%, respectively). This class is represented by palmitic acid (13.52%, 5.76, and 7.52%) linoleic acid (D. wardianum 17.54%), and (Z)-11-hexadecenoic acid (D. chrysantum 29.22%). Esters are detected especially in species from section Dendrobium, with ethyl linolenate, methyl linoleate, ethyl oleate, and ethyl palmitate as the most abundant compounds. Alcohols are present in higher concentrations in D. chrysantum (2.4-di-tert-butylphenol, 22.81%), D. chrysotoxum (1-octanol, and 2-phenylethanol, 2.80% and 2.36%), and D. wardianum (2-phenylethanol, 4.65%). Coumarin (95.59%) is the dominant compound in D. amabile (section Densiflora) and detected in lower concentrations (range 0.19–0.54%) in other samples. These volatile compounds may represent a particular feature of these plant species, playing a critical role in interacting with pollinators.
Assessing the Control of Postharvest Gray Mold Disease on Tomato Fruit Using Mixtures of Essential Oils and Their Respective Hydrolates
Authors: Brito Conny , Hansen Henrik , Espinoza Luis , Faúndez Martín , Olea Andrés F. , Pino Sebastián , Díaz Katy
Published: August 2021

Gray mold disease, which is caused by Botrytis cinerea Pers ex. Fr., results in serious economic losses to Lycopersicum esculentum (tomato) crop productivity. In this study, we explored the possibility that mixtures of essential oils (EOs) and their respective hydrolates (HYSs) could be used to control this disease. Thus, EOs and HYSs were obtained from Origanum vulgare, Thymus vulgaris, Citrus limon, and Citrus sinensis by hydrodistillation. In vitro antifungal activities were evaluated, and EC50 values of 15.9 and 19.8 µg/mL were obtained for EOs of thyme and oregano, respectively. These activities are due mainly to volatile compounds, thymol and carvacrol. Results from in vivo assays show that although most tomatoes were infested five days after inoculation, the damage was considerably reduced by the application of an EO/HYS mixture of thyme. The disease incidence indexes of B. cinerea tomato rot, percentage and severity, measured four days after inoculation, were reduced by 70% and 76%, respectively, as compared with the inoculum control. These results suggest that a combination of HYSs and EOs enhances antifungal activity, and that optimization of relative concentrations, volumes, and the nature of the compounds, could design a formulation able to control B. cinerea inoculum on tomato fruits.
Comparison of Drought and Heat Resistance Strategies among Six Populations of Solanum chilense and Two Cultivars of Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Blanchard-Gros Rémi , Bigot Servane , Martinez Juan-Pablo , Lutts Stanley , Guerriero Gea , Quinet Muriel
Published: August 2021

Within the tomato clade, Solanum chilense is considered one of the most promising sources of genes for tomato (S. lycopersicum) selection to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, we compared the effects of drought, high temperature, and their combination in two cultivars of S. lycopersicum and six populations of S. chilense, differing in their local habitat. Plants were grown at 21/19 °C or 28/26 °C under well-watered and water-stressed conditions. Plant growth, physiological responses, and expression of stress-responsive genes were investigated. Our results demonstrated strong variability among accessions. Differences in plant growth parameters were even higher among S. chilense populations than between species. The effects of water stress, high temperature, and their combination also differed according to the accession, suggesting differences in stress resistance between species and populations. Overall, water stress affected plants more negatively than temperature from a morpho-physiological point of view, while the expression of stress-responsive genes was more affected by temperature than by water stress. Accessions clustered in two groups regarding resistance to water stress and high temperature. The sensitive group included the S. lycopersicum cultivars and the S. chilense populations LA2931 and LA1930, and the resistant group included the S. chilense populations LA1958, LA2880, LA2765, and LA4107. Our results suggested that resistance traits were not particularly related to the environmental conditions in the natural habitat of the populations. The expression of stress-responsive genes was more stable in resistant accessions than in sensitive ones in response to water stress and high temperature. Altogether, our results suggest that water stress and high temperature resistance in S. chilense did not depend on single traits but on a combination of morphological, physiological, and genetic traits.
Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals the Genetic Basis of Chilling Tolerance in Rice at the Reproductive Stage
Authors: Jeong Byeong Yong , Lee Yoonjung , Kwon Yebin , Kim Jee Hye , Ham Tae-Ho , Kwon Soon-Wook , Lee Joohyun
Published: August 2021

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was used to investigate the genetic basis of chilling tolerance in a collection of 117 rice accessions, including 26 Korean landraces and 29 weedy rices, at the reproductive stage. To assess chilling tolerance at the early young microspore stage, plants were treated at 12 °C for 5 days, and tolerance was evaluated using seed set fertility. GWAS, together with principal component analysis and kinship matrix analysis, revealed five quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with chilling tolerance on chromosomes 3, 6, and 7. The percentage of phenotypic variation explained by the QTLs was 11–19%. The genomic region underlying the QTL on chromosome 3 overlapped with a previously reported QTL associated with spikelet fertility. Subsequent bioinformatic and haplotype analyses suggested three candidate chilling-tolerance genes within the QTL linkage disequilibrium block: Os03g0305700, encoding a protein similar to peptide chain release factor 2; Os06g0495700, encoding a beta tubulin, autoregulation binding-site-domain-containing protein; and Os07g0137800, encoding a protein kinase, core-domain-containing protein. Further analysis of the detected QTLs and the candidate chilling-tolerance genes will facilitate strategies for developing chilling-tolerant rice cultivars in breeding programs.
Biophenolic Profile Modulations in Olive Tissues as Affected by Manganese Nutrition
Authors: Vidović Nikolina , Pasković Igor , Lukić Igor , Žurga Paula , Majetić Germek Valerija , Grozić Kristina , Cukrov Marin , Marcelić Šime , Ban Dean , Talhaoui Nassima , Palčić Igor , Rubinić Vedran , Goreta Ban Smiljana
Published: August 2021

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element that intervenes in several plant metabolic processes. The olive tree, and its fruits and leaves, are known as a source of nutraceuticals since they are rich in biophenols. However, there is still a serious lack of data about biophenolic distribution in olive stems and roots under Mn fertilisation. In this context, our study aimed to examine the effects of Mn fertilisation on the biophenolic profile in the leaves, stems, and roots of the ‘Istarska bjelica’ olive cultivar. The experiment was set up in a greenhouse, during a period of five months, as a random block design consisting of three treatments with varying Mn concentrations in full-strength Hoagland’s nutrient solution (0.2 µM Mn, 12 µM Mn, and 24 µM Mn). The obtained results indicate that the amount of Mn in the examined olive plant tissues was significantly higher under 12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn treatments compared to that of the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. While the concentration of biophenols varied in roots depending on the compound in question, a strong positive impact of the increased Mn concentration in nutrient solution (12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn) on the concentrations of the main biophenolic compounds was observed in stems. The concentration of oleuropein in leaves almost doubled at 24 µM Mn, with the highest Mn concentration, as compared to the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. The obtained results led to the conclusion that the supply of Mn could enhance the concentration of some biologically active compounds in olives grown hydroponically, implying a critical need for further investigation of Mn fertilisation practices in the conventional olive farming system.
Metabolomics by UHPLC-Q-TOF Reveals Host Tree-Dependent Phytochemical Variation in Viscum album L.
Authors: Jäger Tim , Holandino Carla , Melo Michelle , Peñaloza Evelyn , Oliveira Adriana , Garrett Rafael , Glauser Gaétan , Grazi Mirio , Ramm Hartmut , Urech Konrad , Baumgartner Stephan
Published: August 2021

Viscum album L., commonly known as European mistletoe, is a hemi-parasitic plant of the Santalaceae family. The in vitro and in vivo effects of V. album differ, according to its host tree. However, little is known about the host-dependent phytochemical diversity in V. album. In this study, the metabolic profiles of V. album ssp. album from Malus domestica Bork., Quercus robur L., and Ulmus carpinifolia Gled were compared. Leaves, stems, and berries were collected in Switzerland, by the same procedure, in September 2016 and 2017. The methanolic extracts were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography, coupled to electrospray quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry in positive ionization mode. The data were submitted to partial-least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and the results showed that the V. album ssp. album samples were clustered into three groups, according to the three distinct host trees. Seven compounds, with high VIP scores (variable importance in projection), were responsible for this differentiation. The following four compounds were detected in both the harvest years: arginine, pipecolic acid or lysine, dimethoxycoumarin, and sinapyl alcohol, suggesting their use as host specific V. album biomarkers. The present work highlights the importance of standardized harvest and analytical procedures for the reproducibility of the chemical results of herbal materials.
Auxin and Cytokinin Interplay during Leaf Morphogenesis and Phyllotaxy
Authors: Hussain Sajid , Nanda Satyabrata , Zhang Junhua , Rehmani Muhammad Ishaq Asif , Suleman Muhammad , Li Gaojie , Hou Hongwei
Published: August 2021

Auxins (IAA) and cytokinins (CKs) are the most influential phytohormones, having multifaceted roles in plants. They are key regulators of plant growth and developmental processes. Additionally, their interplay exerts tight control on plant development and differentiation. Although several reviews have been published detailing the auxin-cytokinin interplay in controlling root growth and differentiation, their roles in the shoot, particularly in leaf morphogenesis are largely unexplored. Recent reports have provided new insights on the roles of these two hormones and their interplay on leaf growth and development. In this review, we focus on the effect of auxins, CKs, and their interactions in regulating leaf morphogenesis. Additionally, the regulatory effects of the auxins and CKs interplay on the phyllotaxy of plants are discussed.
The Effectiveness of Digestate Use for Fertilization in an Agricultural Cropping System
Authors: Doyeni Modupe Olufemi , Stulpinaite Urte , Baksinskaite Ausra , Suproniene Skaidre , Tilvikiene Vita
Published: August 2021

The need to find and maximize the use of alternative sources of nutrients for plants and soil environment have been on the forefront of research in sustainable agriculture. These alternatives have to be affordable, accessible, reproduceable, and efficient to compete with established inorganic fertilizers while at the same time reduce any potential negative impacts on the environment. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of digestate fertilization in an agricultural system over a period of three years. The digestate utilized in the study consisted of animal waste-based digestates, namely pig manure digestate, chicken manure digestate, and cow manure digestate, and were compared with synthetic nitrogen fertilizer. Every year, the digestate and the synthetic nitrogen fertilizer were split applied at the rate of 90 and 80 kg N ha−1. The soil chemical composition after three years of fertilization showed a slight decrease, significantly different nitrogen and carbon changes while phosphorus and potassium were significantly higher in the digestate treatments. The third year of digestate application showed higher grain yield than previous years and the yield from the digestate treatments were significantly different from the synthetic nitrogen fertilizer. The nitrogen use efficiency for the three years was in the range of 20–25 percent in the digestate treatments, with a strong correlation between the nitrogen use efficiency and the grain yield. There were varied results in the grain quality and straw quality in the digestate and synthetic nitrogen fertilizer with no clear trend observed. Our results showed a relatively high potential of animal waste digestates over the short to mid-term use with a positive result obtained in comparison to synthetic nitrogen fertilizer under favorable climatic conditions.
Genetic Diversity of Wheat Stripe Rust Fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici in Yunnan, China
Authors: Alam Md. Ashraful , Li Haoxing , Hossain Akbar , Li Mingju
Published: August 2021

The stripe rust of wheat is one of the devastating diseases in China, which is caused by fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst). The Yunnan Province of China is located in the south-western part, and holds distinctive geographical and climate features, while wheat growth and epidemics of stripe rust fungus are fully dissimilar to the major wheat-growing regions of China. It is important to discover its origin and migration to control the disease. In this study, 352 isolates were sampled from 11 spots of the Yunnan Province during the wheat growing season from 2004 to 2015 and analyzed with SNPs markers of housekeeping genes. Results revealed that 220 haplotypes were inferred from the concatenating sequences; among them, 5 haplotypes (viz., ‘H86′, ‘H18′, ‘H8′, ‘H15′ and ‘H23′) comprised over 24.5% of the population. The haplotype diversity, nucleotide diversity, mutation rate and recombination events were 0.992, 6.04 × 10−3, 4.46 × 10−3 and 18.0 respectively, which revealed the genetic diversity of Pst populations among all locations. Four grouping methods, such as UPGMA-tree, PCA, PLS-DA and STRUCTURE, were employed for the categorization of the Pst populations conferring to their races and topographical localities. All methods were found significant and mostly had co-linear relations with each other. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) conferred total variation was 9.09%, and 86.20% of variation was within the populations. The current study also exposed a comparatively high genetic multiplicity within the population, while low genetic inconsistency among the populations. Furthermore, the molecular records on the gene pole (Nm = 18.45) established that the migration of the stripe rust pathogen occurred among all locations in Yunnan province. The ancestral haplotype was detected in Yuxi. Based on the trajectories of upper airflow and genetic diversity of Pst populations in different locations, it is suggested that the locations Dehong, Dali, Lincang and Baoshan are probably a major source of Pst in Yunnan.
Antcins from Antrodia cinnamomea and Antrodia salmonea Inhibit Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) in Epithelial Cells: Can Be Potential Candidates for the Development of SARS-CoV-2 Prophylactic Agents
Authors: Senthil Kumar K. J. , Gokila Vani M. , Hsieh Han-Wen , Lin Chin-Chung , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: August 2021

Antcins are newly identified steroid-like compounds from Taiwan’s endemic medicinal mushrooms Antrodia cinnamomea and Antrodia salmonea. Scientific studies of the past two decades confirmed that antcins have various pharmacological activities, including potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and is characterized as a significant threat to global public health. It was recently identified that SARS-CoV-2 required angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a receptor which supports host cell entry and disease onset. Here, we report a novel function of antcins, in which antcins exhibit inhibitory effects on ACE2. Compared to the untreated control group, treatment with various antcins (antcin-A, antcin-B, antcin-C, antcin-H, antcin-I, and antcin-M) significantly inhibited ACE2 activity in cultured human epithelial cells. Indeed, among the investigated antcins, antcin-A, antcin-B, antcin-C, and antcin-I showed a pronounceable inhibition against ACE2. These findings suggest that antcins could be novel anti-ACE2 agents to prevent SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry and the following disease onset.
Influence of the Nitrate-N to Ammonium-N Ratio on Relative Growth Rate and Crude Protein Content in the Duckweeds Lemna minor and Wolffiella hyalina
Authors: Petersen Finn , Demann Johannes , Restemeyer Dina , Ulbrich Andreas , Olfs Hans-Werner , Westendarp Heiner , Appenroth Klaus-Jürgen
Published: August 2021

In order to produce protein-rich duckweed for human and animal consumption, a stable cultivation process, including an optimal nutrient supply for each species, must be implemented. Modified nutrient media, based on the N-medium for duckweed cultivation, were tested on the relative growth rate (RGR) and crude protein content (CPC) of Lemna minor and Wolffiella hyalina, as well as the decrease of nitrate-N and ammonium-N in the media. Five different nitrate-N to ammonium-N molar ratios were diluted to 10% and 50% of the original N-medium concentration. The media mainly consisted of agricultural fertilizers. A ratio of 75% nitrate-N and 25% ammonium-N, with a dilution of 50%, yielded the best results for both species. Based on the dry weight (DW), L. minor achieved a RGR of 0.23 ± 0.009 d−1 and a CPC of 37.8 ± 0.42%, while W. hyalina’s maximum RGR was 0.22 ± 0.017 d−1, with a CPC of 43.9 ± 0.34%. The relative protein yield per week and m2 was highest at this ratio and dilution, as well as the ammonium-N decrease in the corresponding medium. These results could be implemented in duckweed research and applications if a high protein content or protein yield is the aim.
Influence of Hydrocarbon-Oxidizing Bacteria on the Growth, Biochemical Characteristics, and Hormonal Status of Barley Plants and the Content of Petroleum Hydrocarbons in the Soil
Authors: Kuzina Elena , Rafikova Gulnaz , Vysotskaya Lidiya , Arkhipova Tatyana , Bakaeva Margarita , Chetverikova Dar’ya , Kudoyarova Guzel , Korshunova Tatyana , Chetverikov Sergey
Published: August 2021

Much attention is paid to the relationship between bacteria and plants in the process of the bioremediation of oil-contaminated soils, but the effect of petroleum degrading bacteria that synthesize phytohormones on the content and distribution of these compounds in plants is poorly studied. The goal of the present field experiment was to study the effects of hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria that produce auxins on the growth, biochemical characteristics, and hormonal status of barley plants in the presence of oil, as well as assessing the effect of bacteria and plants separately and in association with the content of oil hydrocarbons in the soil. The treatment of plants with strains of Enterobacter sp. UOM 3 and Pseudomonas hunanensis IB C7 led to an increase in the length and mass of roots and shoots and the leaf surface index, and an improvement in some parameters of the elements of the crop structure, which were suppressed by the pollutant. The most noticeable effect of bacteria on the plant hormonal system was a decrease in the accumulation of abscisic acid. The data obtained indicate that the introduction of microorganisms weakened the negative effects on plants under abiotic stress caused by the presence of oil. Plant-bacteria associations were more effective in reducing the content of hydrocarbons in the soil and increasing its microbiological activity than when either organism was used individually.
Dual-Purpose of the Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.), the Neglected Tropical Legume, Based on Pod and Tuber Yields
Authors: Sriwichai Sasiprapa , Monkham Tidarat , Sanitchon Jirawat , Jogloy Sanun , Chankaew Sompong
Published: August 2021

Winged beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.) are grown as a vegetable legume crop in Thailand. All parts of the plant, including pods, seeds, leaves, flowers, and tubers are edible and are rich in protein and nutrients. Although the major consumption of winged bean is based on pod and tuber yields, only the people of Myanmar and Indonesia utilize winged bean tubers as food materials. The usefulness of the winged bean as an alternative crop for staple food and feed can shed some light on the impact of winged bean. Therefore, the evaluation of the dual purpose of the winged bean based on pod tuber yields is the objective of this study. In this study, ten-winged bean accessions—six accessions obtained from introduced sources and four accessions obtained from local Thai varieties—were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at the Agronomy Field Crop Station, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand from September 2019 to April 2020 and from October 2020 to April 2021. Data, including total pod weight, number of pods, pod length, 10-pod weight, and tuber weight were recorded, and the proximate nutrient and mineral contents in the tubers were also determined. The results revealed that the principal effects of year (Y) and genotype (G) were significant for total pod weight and the number of pods. Moreover, the Y × G interactions were principal effects upon the total pod weights and tuber weights. The results indicated that superior genotype and appropriate environmental conditions are key elements in successful winged bean production for both pod and tuber yields. The winged bean accessions W099 and W018 were consistent in both experimental years for pod and tuber yields at 23.6 and 18.36 T/ha and 15.20 and 15.5 T/ha, respectively. Each accession also proved high in tuber protein content at 20.92% and 21.04%, respectively, as well as significant in fiber, energy, and minerals. The results suggest that the winged bean accessions W099 and W018 can be used for dual-purpose winged bean production in Thailand.
Basic β-1,3-Glucanase from Drosera binata Exhibits Antifungal Potential in Transgenic Tobacco Plants
Authors: Rajninec Miroslav , Fratrikova Monika , Boszoradova Eva , Jopcik Martin , Bauer Miroslav , Libantova Jana
Published: August 2021

The basic β-1,3-glucanase of the carnivorous plant Drosera binata was tested as a purified protein, as well as under the control of a double CaMV35S promoter in transgenic tobacco for its capability to inhibit the growth of Trichoderma viride, Rhizoctonia solani, Alternaria solani, and Fusarium poae in an in-vitro assay. The purified protein inhibited tested phytopathogens but not the saprophytic fungus T. viride. Out of the analysed transgenic plants, lines 13, 16, 19, and 22 exhibited high DbGluc1 transcript abundance normalised to the actin transcript. Because of DbGluc1 transgene expression, lines 13 and 16 showed a 1.7-fold increase and lines 19 and 22 showed more than a 2-fold increase in total β-1,3-glucanase activity compared to the non-transgenic control. In accordance with the purified β-1,3-glucanase in-vitro antifungal assay, crude protein extracts of lines 19 and 22 significantly inhibited the growth of phytopathogens (14–34%). Further analyses revealed that the complementary action of transgenic β-1,3-glucanase and 20% higher activity of endogenous chitinase(s) in these lines were crucial for maximising the antifungal efficiency of crude protein extracts.
The Role of Flavonoids in Invasion Strategy of Solidago canadensis L.
Authors: Likhanov Artur , Oliinyk Marian , Pashkevych Nataliia , Churilov Andrii , Kozyr Mykola
Published: August 2021

This study provides data on the problem of potential complexation of phenolic compounds synthesized by the plants Solidago canadensis L. and Solidago gigantea Ait. with ammonium forms of nitrogen, partly immobilized in the soil. A comparative analysis of secondary metabolites of the studied plants was performed by HPLC. The leaves of invasively active Solidago canadensis contain nine times more rutin than the plants of Solidago gigantea. Adding to the leaf extracts (v/v1/20) aqueous ammonia solution to pH 8.0 on the chromatograms decreases the intensity or completely causes peaks of flavonoids to disappear; instead, there are peaks of new polar substances (tR 1.5 and 2.0 min). The selective effect of the phenol-ammonium complex on various plant species was revealed. At a concentration of 20 μg/mL, these substances stimulated the formation of lateral roots in soybean seedlings and chrysanthemum cuttings. The suppression of root growth in radish seedlings occurred at a concentration of flavonoids in the extract of 25 μg/mL. In addition, a positive chemotaxis of the Pseudomonas putida (PGPR) was detected in the nitrogen-containing complex based on rutin (5 μg/mL). The identified feature allows PGPR colonization of the root system of Solidago canadensis with corresponding changes in the structure of the microbial community. The ability of the obtained nitrogen-containing polar complexes to regulate the growth processes of plants at extremely low concentration points to promising research in this direction.
Analysis of Bubble Growth in Supercritical CO2 Extrusion Foaming Polyethylene Terephthalate Process Based on Dynamic Flow Simulation
Authors: Yao Shun , Chen Yichong , Ling Yijie , Hu Dongdong , Xi Zhenhao , Zhao Ling
Published: August 2021

Bubble growth in the polymer extrusion foaming process occurs under a dynamic melt flow. For non-Newtonian fluids, this work successfully coupled the dynamic melt flow simulation with the bubble growth model to realize bubble growth predictions in an extrusion flow. The initial thermophysical properties and dynamic rheological property distribution at the cross section of the die exit were calculated based on the finite element method. It was found that dynamic rheological properties provided a necessary solution for predicting bubble growth during the supercritical CO2 polyethylene terephthalate (PET) extrusion foaming process. The introduction of initial melt stress could effectively inhibit the rapid growth of bubbles and reduce the stable size of bubbles. However, the initial melt stress was ignored in previous work involving bubble growth predictions because it was not available. The simulation results based on the above theoretical model were consistent with the evolution trends of cell morphology and agreed well with the actual experimental results.
Hybrid Hosts Based on Sodium Alginate and Porous Clay Heterostructures for Drug Encapsulation
Authors: Voicu (Mihai) Anda Ionelia , Gȃrea Sorina Alexandra , Vasile Eugeniu , Ghebaur Adi , Iovu Horia
Published: August 2021

In this study, some hybrid materials based on sodium alginate (NaAlg) and porous clay heterostructures (PCHs) were investigated as new hosts for 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) encapsulation. The hybrid hosts were prepared by ionotropic gelation technique using different concentrations of PCHs (1, 3, and 10 wt%) in order to identify the optimal parameters for encapsulation and drug release. The obtained hybrid materials were characterized using FTIR Spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectrometry to investigate the interactions of the raw materials involved in the preparation of hybrid hosts, the influence of PCHs concentrations on drug encapsulation efficiency and drug release profile. All the results show that the synthesized hybrid materials were able to load a high amount of 5-FU, the encapsulation efficiency and the release profile being influenced by the concentrations of PCHs.
Novel High Flux Poly(m-phenylene isophtalamide)/TiO2 Membranes for Ultrafiltration with Enhanced Antifouling Performance
Authors: Dmitrenko Mariia , Kuzminova Anna , Zolotarev Andrey , Liamin Vladislav , Plisko Tatiana , Burts Katsiaryna , Bildyukevich Alexandr , Ermakov Sergey , Penkova Anastasia
Published: August 2021

Wide application of ultrafiltration in different industrial fields requires the development of new membranes with tailored properties and good antifouling stability. This study is devoted to the improvement of ultrafiltration properties of poly(m-phenylene isophtalamide) (PA) membranes by modification with titanium oxide (TiO2) particles. The introduction of TiO2 particles improved membrane separation performance and increased antifouling stability and cleaning ability under UV irradiation. The developed membranes were characterized by scanning electron and atomic force microscopy methods, the measurements of water contact angle, and total porosimetry. The transport properties of the PA and PA/TiO2 membranes were tested in ultrafiltration of industrially important feeds: coolant lubricant (cutting fluid) emulsion (5 wt.% in water) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution (0.5 wt.%). The PA/TiO2 (0.3 wt.%) membrane was found to possess optimal transport characteristics in ultrafiltration of coolant lubricant emulsion due to the highest pure water and coolant lubricant fluxes (1146 and 32 L/(m2 h), respectively), rejection coefficient (100%), and flux recovery ratio (84%). Furthermore, this membrane featured improved ability of surface contamination degradation after UV irradiation in prolonged ultrafiltration of BSA, demonstrating a high flux recovery ratio (89–94%).
Fully Bio-Based Elastomer Nanocomposites Comprising Polyfarnesene Reinforced with Plasma-Modified Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Magaña Ilse , Georgouvelas Dimitrios , Handa Rishab , Neira Velázquez María Guadalupe , López González Héctor Ricardo , Enríquez Medrano Francisco Javier , Díaz de León Ramón , Valencia Luis
Published: August 2021

This article proposes a process to prepare fully bio-based elastomer nanocomposites based on polyfarnesene and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). To improve the compatibility of cellulose with the hydrophobic matrix of polyfarnesene, the surface of CNC was modified via plasma-induced polymerization, at different powers of the plasma generator, using a trans-β-farnesene monomer in the plasma reactor. The characteristic features of plasma surface-modified CNC have been corroborated by spectroscopic (XPS) and microscopic (AFM) analyses. Moreover, the cellulose nanocrystals modified at 150 W have been selected to reinforce polyfarnesene-based nanocomposites, synthesized via an in-situ coordination polymerization using a neodymium-based catalytic system. The effect of the different loading content of nanocrystals on the polymerization behavior, as well as on the rheological aspects, was evaluated. The increase in the storage modulus with the incorporation of superficially modified nanocrystals was demonstrated by rheological measurements and these materials exhibited better properties than those containing pristine cellulose nanocrystals. Moreover, we elucidate that the viscoelastic moduli of the elastomer nanocomposites are aligned with power–law model systems with characteristic relaxation time scales similar to commercial nanocomposites, also implying tunable mechanical properties. In this foreground, our findings have important implications in the development of fully bio-based nanocomposites in close competition with the commercial stock, thereby producing alternatives in favor of sustainable materials.