bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiabetic and Anticancer Potentials of Mangifera indica L. from Different Geographical Origins
Authors: Ahmad Rizwan , Alqathama Aljawharah , Aldholmi Mohammed , Riaz Muhammad , Abdalla Ashraf N. , Aljishi Fatema , Althomali Ebtihal , Amir Mohd , Abdullah Omeima , Alamer Muntathir Ali , Alaswad Deema , Alsulais Wala , Alsulays Ahad
Published: February 2023

Mango fruit is well known for its nutritional and health benefits due to the presence of a plethora of phytochemical classes. The quality of mango fruit and its biological activities may change depending upon the variation in geographical factors. For the first time, this study comprehensively screened the biological activities of all four parts of the mango fruit from twelve different origins. Various cell lines (MCF7, HCT116, HepG2, MRC5) were used to screen the extracts for their cytotoxicity, glucose uptake, glutathione peroxidase activity, and α-amylase inhibition. MTT assays were carried out to calculate the IC50 values for the most effective extracts. The seed part from Kenya and Sri Lanka origins exhibited an IC50 value of 14.44 ± 3.61 (HCT116) and 17.19 ± 1.60 (MCF7). The seed part for Yemen Badami (119 ± 0.08) and epicarp part of Thailand (119 ± 0.11) mango fruit showed a significant increase in glucose utilization (50 μg/mL) as compared to the standard drug metformin (123 ± 0.07). The seed extracts of Yemen Taimoor seed (0.46 ± 0.05) and Yemen Badami (0.62 ± 0.13) produced a significant reduction in GPx activity (50 μg/mL) compared to the control cells (100 μg/mL). For α-amylase inhibition, the lowest IC50 value was observed for the endocarp part of Yemen Kalabathoor (108.8 ± 0.70 μg/mL). PCA, ANOVA, and Pearson’s statistical models revealed a significant correlation for the fruit part vs. biological activities, and seed part vs. cytotoxicity and α-amylase activity (p = 0.05). The seed of mango fruit exhibited significant biological activities; hence, further in-depth metabolomic and in vivo studies are essential to effectively utilize the seed part for the treatment of various diseases.
The Kynurenine Pathway in Healthy Subjects and Subjects with Obesity, Depression and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Farup Per G. , Hamarsland Håvard , Mølmen Knut Sindre , Ellefsen Stian , Hestad Knut
Published: February 2023

Background: Changes in tryptophan metabolism through the kynurenine pathway (KP) are observed in several disorders and coupled with pathophysiological deviations. Methods: This study retrospectively compared the KP in serum in healthy subjects (108) with subjects with obesity (141), depression (49), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (22) participating in four clinical studies and explored predictors of the changes in the KP metabolites. Results: Compared with the healthy group, the KP was upregulated in the disease groups with high kynurenine, quinolinic acid (QA), kynurenine/tryptophan-ratio and QA/xanthurenic acid-ratio and low kynurenic acid/QA-ratio. Tryptophan and xanthurenic acid were upregulated in the depressed group compared with the groups with obesity and COPD. The covariates BMI, smoking, diabetes, and C-reactive protein explained the significant differences between the healthy group and the group with obesity but not between the healthy group and the groups with depression and COPD, indicating that different pathophysiological conditions result in the same changes in the KP. Conclusions: The KP was significantly upregulated in the disease groups compared with the healthy group, and there were significant differences between the disease groups. Different pathophysiological abnormalities seemed to result in the same deviations in the KP.
Multifunctional Three-Dimensional Printed Copper Loaded Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Pillai Amit , Chakka Jaidev , Heshmathi Niloofar , Zhang Yu , Alkadi Faez , Maniruzzaman Mohammed
Published: February 2023

Bone regeneration using inorganic nanoparticles is a robust and safe approach. In this paper, copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) loaded with calcium phosphate scaffolds were studied for their bone regeneration potential in vitro. The pneumatic extrusion method of 3D printing was employed to prepare calcium phosphate cement (CPC) and copper loaded CPC scaffolds with varying wt% of copper nanoparticles. A new aliphatic compound Kollisolv MCT 70 was used to ensure the uniform mixing of copper nanoparticles with CPC matrix. The printed scaffolds were studied for physico-chemical characterization for surface morphology, pore size, wettability, XRD, and FTIR. The copper ion release was studied in phosphate buffer saline at pH 7.4. The in vitro cell culture studies for the scaffolds were performed using human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The cell proliferation study in CPC-Cu scaffolds showed significant cell growth compared to CPC. The CPC-Cu scaffolds showed improved alkaline phosphatase activity and angiogenic potential compared to CPC. The CPC-Cu scaffolds showed significant concentration dependent antibacterial activity in Staphylococcus aureus. Overall, the CPC scaffolds loaded with 1 wt% Cu NPs showed improved activity compared to other CPC-Cu and CPC scaffolds. The results showed that copper has improved the osteogenic, angiogenic and antibacterial properties of CPC scaffolds, facilitating better bone regeneration in vitro.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Baseline Autonomic Tone and Haemodynamic Effects of Dexmedetomidine
Authors: Wujtewicz Magdalena , Twardowski Paweł , Jasiński Tomasz , Michalska-Małecka Katarzyna , Owczuk Radosław
Published: February 2023

Dexmedetomidine, a central α-2 agonist, is used for procedural sedation and for conscious sedation influences on heart rate and blood pressure. Authors verified whether it is possible to predict bradycardia and hypotension with the use of heart rate variability (HRV) analysis for an autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity assessment. The study included adult patients of both sexes with an ASA score of I or II scheduled for ophthalmic surgery to be performed under sedation. The loading dose of dexmedetomidine was followed by a 15 min infusion of the maintenance dose. The frequency domain heart rate variability parameters from the 5-min Holter electrocardiogram recordings before dexmedetomidine administration were used for the analysis. The statistical analysis also included pre-drug heart rate and blood pressure as well as patient age and sex. The data from 62 patients were analysed. There was no relationship between the decrease in heart rate (42% of cases) and initial HRV parameters, haemodynamic parameters or sex and age of patients. In multivariate analysis, the only risk factor for a decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) > 15% from the pre-drug value (39% of cases) was the systolic blood pressure before dexmedetomidine administration as well as for a >15% decrease in MAP sustained at more than one consecutive time point (27% of cases). The initial condition of the ANS did not correlate with the incidence of bradycardia or hypotension; HRV analysis was not helpful in predicting the abovementioned side effects of dexmedetomidine.
Prediction of the Drug–Drug Interaction Potential between Tegoprazan and Amoxicillin/Clarithromycin Using the Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Wei Zhuodu , Jeong Hyeon-Cheol , Kim Min-Gul , Shin Kwang-Hee
Published: February 2023

Tegoprazan is a novel potassium-competitive acid blocker. This study investigated the effect of drug–drug interaction on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tegoprazan co-administered with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, the first-line therapy for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, using physiologically based pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PBPK/PD) modeling. The previously reported tegoprazan PBPK/PD model was modified and applied. The clarithromycin PBPK model was developed based on the model provided by the SimCYP® compound library. The amoxicillin model was constructed using the middle-out approach. All of the observed concentration–time profiles were covered well by the predicted profiles with the 5th and 95th percentiles. The mean ratios of predicted to observed PK parameters, including the area under the curve (AUC), maximum plasma drug concentration (Cmax), and clearance, were within the 30% intervals for the developed models. Two-fold ratios of predicted fold-changes of Cmax and AUC from time 0 to 24 h to observed data were satisfied. The predicted PD endpoints, including median intragastric pH and percentage holding rate at pH above 4 or 6 on day 1 and day 7, were close to the corresponding observed data. This investigation allows evaluation of the effects of CYP3A4 perpetrators on tegoprazan PK and PD changes, thus providing clinicians with the rationale for co-administration dosing adjustment.
Natural Gums in Drug-Loaded Micro- and Nanogels
Authors: Froelich Anna , Jakubowska Emilia , Jadach Barbara , Gadziński Piotr , Osmałek Tomasz
Published: February 2023

Gums are polysaccharide compounds obtained from natural sources, such as plants, algae and bacteria. Because of their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, as well as their ability to swell and their sensitivity to degradation by the colon microbiome, they are regarded as interesting potential drug carriers. In order to obtain properties differing from the original compounds, blends with other polymers and chemical modifications are usually applied. Gums and gum-derived compounds can be applied in the form of macroscopic hydrogels or can be formulated into particulate systems that can deliver the drugs via different administration routes. In this review, we present and summarize the most recent studies regarding micro- and nanoparticles obtained with the use of gums extensively investigated in pharmaceutical technology, their derivatives and blends with other polymers. This review focuses on the most important aspects of micro- and nanoparticulate systems formulation and their application as drug carriers, as well as the challenges related to these formulations.
New Technological Approaches for Dental Caries Treatment: From Liquid Crystalline Systems to Nanocarriers
Authors: Luiz Marcela Tavares , di Filippo Leonardo Delello , Dutra Jessyca Aparecida Paes , Viegas Juliana Santos Rosa , Silvestre Amanda Letícia Polli , Anselmi Caroline , Duarte Jonatas Lobato , Calixto Giovana Maria Fioramonti , Chorilli Marlus
Published: February 2023

Dental caries is the most common oral disease, with high prevalence rates in adolescents and low-income and lower-middle-income countries. This disease originates from acid production by bacteria, leading to demineralization of the dental enamel and the formation of cavities. The treatment of caries remains a global challenge and the development of effective drug delivery systems is a potential strategy. In this context, different drug delivery systems have been investigated to remove oral biofilms and remineralize dental enamel. For a successful application of these systems, it is necessary that they remain adhered to the surfaces of the teeth to allow enough time for the removal of biofilms and enamel remineralization, thus, the use of mucoadhesive systems is highly encouraged. Among the systems used for this purpose, liquid crystalline systems, polymer-based nanoparticles, lipid-based nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles have demonstrated great potential for preventing and treating dental caries through their own antimicrobial and remineralization properties or through delivering drugs. Therefore, the present review addresses the main drug delivery systems investigated in the treatment and prevention of dental caries.
Current Status of Oligonucleotide-Based Protein Degraders
Authors: Shih Po-Chang , Naganuma Miyako , Demizu Yosuke , Naito Mikihiko
Published: February 2023

Transcription factors (TFs) and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have long been considered undruggable, mainly because they lack ligand-binding sites and are equipped with flat and narrow protein surfaces. Protein-specific oligonucleotides have been harnessed to target these proteins with some satisfactory preclinical results. The emerging proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology is no exception, utilizing protein-specific oligonucleotides as warheads to target TFs and RBPs. In addition, proteolysis by proteases is another type of protein degradation. In this review article, we discuss the current status of oligonucleotide-based protein degraders that are dependent either on the ubiquitin–proteasome system or a protease, providing a reference for the future development of degraders.
pH-Responsible Doxorubicin-Loaded Fe3O4@CaCO3 Nanocomposites for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Popova Victoriya , Poletaeva Yuliya , Chubarov Alexey , Dmitrienko Elena
Published: February 2023

A magnetic nanocomposite (MNC) is an integrated nanoplatform that combines a set of functions of two types of materials. A successful combination can give rise to a completely new material with unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. The magnetic core of MNC provides the possibility of magnetic resonance or magnetic particle imaging, magnetic field-influenced targeted delivery, hyperthermia, and other outstanding applications. Recently, MNC gained attention for external magnetic field-guided specific delivery to cancer tissue. Further, drug loading enhancement, construction stability, and biocompatibility improvement may lead to high progress in the area. Herein, the novel method for nanoscale Fe3O4@CaCO3 composites synthesis was proposed. For the procedure, oleic acid-modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles were coated with porous CaCO3 using an ion coprecipitation technique. PEG-2000, Tween 20, and DMEM cell media was successfully used as a stabilization agent and template for Fe3O4@CaCO3 synthesis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) data were used for the Fe3O4@CaCO3 MNC’s characterization. To improve the nanocomposite properties, the concentration of the magnetic core was varied, yielding optimal size, polydispersity, and aggregation ability. The resulting Fe3O4@CaCO3 had a size of 135 nm with narrow size distributions, which is suitable for biomedical applications. The stability experiment in various pH, cell media, and fetal bovine serum was also evaluated. The material showed low cytotoxicity and high biocompatibility. An excellent anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) loading of up to 1900 µg/mg (DOX/MNC) was demonstrated. The Fe3O4@CaCO3/DOX displayed high stability at neutral pH and efficient acid-responsive drug release. The series of DOX-loaded Fe3O4@CaCO3 MNCs indicated effective inhibition of Hela and MCF-7 cell lines, and the IC 50 values were calculated. Moreover, 1.5 μg of the DOX-loaded Fe3O4@CaCO3 nanocomposite is sufficient to inhibit 50% of Hela cells, which shows a high prospect for cancer treatment. The stability experiments for DOX-loaded Fe3O4@CaCO3 in human serum albumin solution indicated the drug release due to the formation of a protein corona. The presented experiment showed the “pitfalls” of DOX-loaded nanocomposites and provided step-by-step guidance on efficient, smart, anticancer nanoconstruction fabrication. Thus, the Fe3O4@CaCO3 nanoplatform exhibits good performance in the cancer treatment area.
Product Validation and Stability Testing of Pharmacy Compounded Cholic Acid Capsules for Dutch Patients with Rare Bile Acid Synthesis Defects
Authors: Polak Yasmin , Jacobs Bart A. W. , Bouwhuis Natalja , Hollak Carla E. M. , Kroon Maurice A. G. M. , Kemper Elles Marleen
Published: February 2023

Bile acid synthesis defects (BASDs) comprise a group of rare diseases that can be severely disabling. Bile acid supplementation with 5 to 15 mg/kg cholic acid (CA) has been hypothesized to decrease endogenous bile acid production, stimulate bile secretion, and improve bile flow and micellar solubilization, thereby improving the biochemical profile and potentially slowing down disease progression. Currently, CA treatment is unavailable in the Netherlands, and CA capsules were compounded by the Amsterdam UMC Pharmacy from CA raw material. This study aims to determine the pharmaceutical quality and stability of the pharmacy compounded CA capsules. Pharmaceutical quality tests were performed on 25 mg and 250 mg CA capsules according to general monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia 10th ed. For the stability study, the capsules were stored under long-term conditions (25 °C ± 2 °C/60% ± 5% RH) and accelerated conditions (40 °C ± 2 °C/75% ± 5% RH). Samples were analyzed at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. The findings demonstrate that the pharmacy compounded CA capsules within a range of 25–250 mg that complied with the European regulations in regard to product quality and safety. The pharmacy compounded CA capsules are suitable for use in patients with BASD, as clinically indicated. With its simple formulation, pharmacies are provided a guidance on product validation and stability testing when commercial CA capsules are unavailable.
A Multifunctional Trypsin Protease Inhibitor from Yellow Bell Pepper Seeds: Uncovering Its Dual Antifungal and Hypoglycemic Properties
Authors: Cotabarren Juliana , Ozón Brenda , Claver Santiago , Geier Florencia , Rossotti Martina , Garcia-Pardo Javier , Obregón Walter David
Published: February 2023

Fungal infections are a growing public health concern worldwide and the emergence of antifungal resistance has limited the number of therapeutic options. Therefore, developing novel strategies for identifying and developing new antifungal compounds is an active area of research in the pharmaceutical industry. In this study, we purified and characterized a trypsin protease inhibitor obtained from Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds. The inhibitor not only showed potent and specific activity against the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans, but was also found to be non-toxic against human cells. Furthermore, this inhibitor is unique in that it also inhibits α-1,4-glucosidase, positioning it as one of the first plant-derived protease inhibitors with dual biological activity. This exciting discovery opens new avenues for the development of this inhibitor as a promising antifungal agent and highlights the potential of plant-derived protease inhibitors as a rich source for the discovery of novel multifunctional bioactive molecules.
Pharmacist Administration of Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics to Community-Dwelling Patients: A Scoping Review
Authors: Murphy Andrea L. , Suh Sowon , Gillis Louise , Morrison Jason , Gardner David M.
Published: February 2023

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIAs) have demonstrated positive outcomes for people with serious mental illnesses. They are underused, and access to LAIAs can be challenging. Pharmacies could serve as suitable environments for LAIA injection by pharmacists. To map and characterize the literature regarding the administration of LAIAs by pharmacists, a scoping review was conducted. Electronic-database searches (e.g., PsycINFO, Ovid Medline, Scopus, and Embase) and others including ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global and Google, were conducted. Citation lists and cited-reference searches were completed. Zotero was used as the reference-management database. Covidence was used for overall review management. Two authors independently screened articles and performed full-text abstractions. From all sources, 292 studies were imported, and 124 duplicates were removed. After screening, 13 studies were included for abstraction. Most articles were published in the US since 2010. Seven studies used database and survey methods, with adherence and patient satisfaction as the main patient-outcomes assessed. Reporting of pharmacists’ and patients’ perspectives surrounding LAIA administration was minimal and largely anecdotal. Financial analyses for services were also limited. The published literature surrounding pharmacist administration of LAIAs is limited, providing little-to-no guidance for the development and implementation of this service by others.
Perfect Invisibility Modes in Dielectric Nanofibers
Authors: Klimov Vasily V. , Guzatov Dmitry V.
Published: February 2023

With the help of the original mathematical method for solving Maxwell’s equations, it is shown that in dielectric waveguides along with usual waveguides and quasi-normal modes, there are perfect invisibility modes or perfect non-scattering modes. In contrast to the usual waveguide modes, at eigenfrequencies of the perfect invisibility modes, light can propagate in free space. The properties of the invisibility modes in waveguides of circular and elliptical cross-sections are analyzed in detail. It is shown that at the eigenfrequencies of the perfect invisibility modes, the power of the light scattered from the waveguide tends to zero and the optical fiber becomes invisible. The found modes can be used to create highly sensitive nanosensors and other optical nanodevices, where radiation and scattering losses should be minimal.
Temperature-Insensitive Ferrofluid-Clad Microfiber Bragg Grating for Magnetic Field Sensing
Authors: Luo Haimei , Liu Yangyang , Nie Liyuan , Wang Zeng , Gao Xiaoyong , Wang Yifan , Zhao Jiajia , Liu Guiqiang , Xu Shaoyi
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a temperature-insensitive ferrofluid (FF)-clad microfiber Bragg Grating (MF-BG) magnetic field sensor is proposed. Through optimizing the diameter of MF-BG, we can effectively suppress its thermal property. The experimental research results show that when the diameter of MF-BG is ~2.94 μm, its reflection spectrum shift owing to ambient temperature change can be substantially small within the range of 20–80 °C. The thermal stable sensor has a magnetic field sensitivity of 0.667 pm/Gs with a linearity of more than 0.985 at 20 °C.
Polarization-Independent Terahertz Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor for Species Identification of Panax and Paeonia
Authors: Hu Songyan , Sun Can , Wu Xu , Peng Yan
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we proposed a polarization-independent terahertz surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor based on an angular cyclic element structure. The biosensor has the advantages of high sensitivity detection and high stability against the polarization change of incident terahertz light. Based on the principle that the spatial longitudinal electric field of the SPR biosensor is nonlinear and sensitive to the dielectric constant of the sample, we theoretically proved that specific nonlinear response curves with certain saturating speed and amplitude can be formed to identify different samples. The biosensor was applied to identify Panax (notoginseng, ginseng and American ginseng, 48 samples each) and Paeonia (white peony and red peony, 48 samples each) with the accuracy of 95.8% and 94.4%, respectively. The standard deviations (SD) were less than 0.347% and 0.403%, respectively. Therefore, the polarization-independent terahertz biosensor can rapidly and accurately identify Panax species and Paeonia species. These results provide a new reference for rapid and low-cost identification of medicine species.
Promising Application of Automated Liquid Culture System and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for Large-Scale Micropropagation of Red Dragon Fruit
Authors: Dewir Yaser Hassan , Habib Muhammad M. , Alaizari Ahmed Ali , Malik Jahangir A. , Al-Ali Ali Mohsen , Al-Qarawi AbdulAziz A. , Alwahibi Mona S.
Published: February 2023

Red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is an economic and promising fruit crop in arid and semi-arid regions with water shortage. An automated liquid culture system using bioreactors is a potential tool for micropropagation and large-scale production. In this study, axillary cladode multiplication of H. polyrhizus was assessed using cladode tips and cladode segments in gelled culture versus continuous immersion air-lift bioreactors (with or without a net). Axillary multiplication using cladode segments (6.4 cladodes per explant) was more effective than cladode tip explants (4.5 cladodes per explant) in gelled culture. Compared with gelled culture, continuous immersion bioreactors provided high axillary cladode multiplication (45.9 cladodes per explant) with a higher biomass and length of axillary cladodes. Inoculation of H. polyrhizus micropropagated plantlets with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Gigaspora margarita and Gigaspora albida) significantly increased the vegetative growth during acclimatization. These findings will improve the large-scale propagation of dragon fruit.
New Growth-Related Features of Wheat Grain Pericarp Revealed by Synchrotron-Based X-ray Micro-Tomography and 3D Reconstruction
Authors: Legland David , Le Thang Duong Quoc , Alvarado Camille , Girousse Christine , Chateigner-Boutin Anne-Laure
Published: February 2023

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important crops as it provides 20% of calories and proteins to the human population. To overcome the increasing demand in wheat grain production, there is a need for a higher grain yield, and this can be achieved in particular through an increase in the grain weight. Moreover, grain shape is an important trait regarding the milling performance. Both the final grain weight and shape would benefit from a comprehensive knowledge of the morphological and anatomical determinism of wheat grain growth. Synchrotron-based phase-contrast X-ray microtomography (X-ray µCT) was used to study the 3D anatomy of the growing wheat grain during the first developmental stages. Coupled with 3D reconstruction, this method revealed changes in the grain shape and new cellular features. The study focused on a particular tissue, the pericarp, which has been hypothesized to be involved in the control of grain development. We showed considerable spatio-temporal diversity in cell shape and orientations, and in tissue porosity associated with stomata detection. These results highlight the growth-related features rarely studied in cereal grains, which may contribute significantly to the final grain weight and shape.
A Genome-Wide Association Study and Genomic Prediction for Fiber and Sucrose Contents in a Mapping Population of LCP 85-384 Sugarcane
Authors: Xiong Haizheng , Chen Yilin , Pan Yong-Bao , Shi Ainong
Published: February 2023

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) is an economically important crop for both sugar and biofuel industries. Fiber and sucrose contents are the two most critical quantitative traits in sugarcane breeding that require multiple-year and multiple-location evaluations. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) could significantly reduce the time and cost of developing new sugarcane varieties. The objectives of this study were to conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify DNA markers associated with fiber and sucrose contents and to perform genomic prediction (GP) for the two traits. Fiber and sucrose data were collected from 237 self-pollinated progenies of LCP 85-384, the most popular Louisiana sugarcane cultivar from 1999 to 2007. The GWAS was performed using 1310 polymorphic DNA marker alleles with three models of TASSEL 5, single marker regression (SMR), general linear model (GLM) and mixed linear model (MLM), and the fixed and random model circulating probability unification (FarmCPU) of R package. The results showed that 13 and 9 markers were associated with fiber and sucrose contents, respectively. The GP was performed by cross-prediction with five models, ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction (rrBLUP), Bayesian ridge regression (BRR), Bayesian A (BA), Bayesian B (BB) and Bayesian least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (BL). The accuracy of GP varied from 55.8% to 58.9% for fiber content and 54.6% to 57.2% for sucrose content. Upon validation, these markers can be applied in MAS and genomic selection (GS) to select superior sugarcane with good fiber and high sucrose contents.
A Blind-Identification Test on Criconema annuliferum (de Man, 1921) Micoletzky, 1925 Species Complex Corroborate the Hyper-Cryptic Species Diversity Using Integrative Taxonomy
Authors: Archidona-Yuste Antonio , Palomares-Rius Juan Emilio , Clavero-Camacho Ilenia , Cantalapiedra-Navarrete Carolina , Liébanas Gracia , Castillo Pablo
Published: February 2023

Ring nematodes are obligate ectoparasites on crops and natural herbaceous and woody plants, and some species are of economic importance and cause damage to roots of several crops. Recent integrative taxonomical analyses recognized the existence of two cryptic species within the Criconema annuliferum morphotype in Spain. In this study, we corroborated that morphometric, morphological and a multi-locus analysis (including the ribosomal markers D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S rRNA, ITS rRNA, 18S RNA, and the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase I gene) identified a new lineage clearly separated from C. annuliferum, C. paraannuliferum and C. plesioannuliferum. The new lineage was described herein as Criconema pseudoannuliferum sp. nov., confirming that C. annuliferum species complex species complex comprises a hyper-cryptic species complex. This research analysed soil samples from the rhizosphere of maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) forests in Bermeja-Crestellina Mountain, located at the western part of Málaga province, southern Spain. The integrative taxonomical analyses revealed the occurrence of a new cryptic species identified using females, males and juveniles with detailed morphology, morphometry and molecular markers, described herein as Criconema pseudoannuliferum sp. nov. All molecular markers (D2-D3, ITS, 18S and COI) were obtained from the same individual that was also used for morphological and morphometric analyses. This research demonstrated the hidden diversity within the C. annuliferum species complex species complex can reach to four lineages under ribosomal and mitochondrial gene markers for one morphospecies group, which includes four species, viz. C. annuliferum, C. paraannuliferum, C. plesioannuliferum, and C. pseudoannuliferum sp. nov. Criconema pseudoannuliferum sp. nov. was detected in moderate soil density in two maritime pine forests (5 and 25 nematodes/500 cm3 of soil) suggesting that does not cause damage to maritime pine.
The Relationship and Influencing Factors between Endangered Plant Tetraena mongolica and Soil Microorganisms in West Ordos Desert Ecosystem, Northern China
Authors: Liu Zhangkai , Wang Congwen , Yang Xuejun , Liu Guofang , Cui Qingguo , Indree Tuvshintogtokh , Ye Xuehua , Huang Zhenying
Published: February 2023

Soil microorganisms play crucial roles in improving nutrient cycling, maintaining soil fertility in desert ecosystems such as the West Ordos desert ecosystem in Northern China, which is home to a variety of endangered plants. However, the relationship between the plants–microorganisms–soil in the West Ordos desert ecosystem is still unclear. Tetraena mongolica, an endangered and dominant plant species in West Ordos, was selected as the research object in the present study. Results showed that (1) there were ten plant species in the Tetraena mongolica community, belonging to seven families and nine genera, respectively. The soil was strongly alkaline (pH = 9.22 ± 0.12) and the soil nutrients were relatively poor; (2) fungal diversity was more closely related to shrub diversity than bacterial and archaeal diversity; (3) among the fungal functional groups, endomycorrhizal led to a significant negative correlation between shrub diversity and fungal diversity, because endomycorrhizal had a significant positive effect on the dominance of T. mongolica, but had no significant effect on other shrubs; (4) plant diversity had a significant positive correlation with the soil inorganic carbon (SIC), total carbon (TC), available phosphorus (AVP) and available potassium (AVK). This study revealed the effects of soil properties and soil microorganisms on the community structure and the growth of T. mongolica and provided a theoretical basis for the conservation of T. mongolica and the maintenance of biodiversity in desert ecosystems.
Preparation of Zn−Gly and Se−Gly and Their Effects on the Nutritional Quality of Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Li Feixia , Yao Xinzhuan , Lu Litang , Jiao Yujie
Published: February 2023

Background: Micronutrient malnutrition affects millions of people due to a lack of Zn and Se. Methods: The process conditions for the manufacture of glycine−chelated sodium selenite (Se−Gly) and zinc sulfate heptahydrate (Zn−Gly) were studied. The effects of ligand concentration, pH, reaction ratio, reaction temperature, and reaction time on fertilizer stability were assessed. The effects of Zn−Gly and Se−Gly on tea plants were determined. Results: Orthogonal experiments showed that the optimal preparation conditions for Zn−Gly (75.80 % Zn chelation rate) were pH 6.0, ligand concentration 4 %, reaction ratio 1:2, reaction time 120 min, reaction temperature 70 ℃. The optimal preparation conditions for Se−Gly (56.75 % Se chelation rate) were pH 6.0, ligand concentration 10%, reaction ratio 2:1, reaction time 40 min, temperature 50 ℃. Each chelate was completely soluble in water and verified by infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet spectroscopy. Conclusions: Zn−Gly and Se−Gly increased the Zn and Se content in tea plants, and foliar application was more effective than soil application. Combined application of Zn−Gly and Se−Gly was more effective than Zn−Gly or Se−Gly alone. Our findings suggest that Zn−Gly and Se−Gly provide a convenient method of addressing human Zn and Se deficiency.
Bioelimination of Phytotoxic Hydrocarbons by Biostimulation and Phytoremediation of Soil Polluted by Waste Motor Oil
Authors: Juárez-Cisneros Gladys , Saucedo-Martínez Blanca Celeste , Sánchez-Yáñez Juan Manuel
Published: February 2023

Soils contaminated by waste motor oil (WMO) affect their fertility, so it is necessary to recover them by means of an efficient and safe bioremediation technique for agricultural production. The objectives were: (a) to biostimulate the soil impacted by WMO by applying crude fungal extract (CFE) and Cicer arietinum as a green manure (GM), and (b) phytoremediation using Sorghum vulgare with Rhizophagus irregularis and/or Rhizobium etli to reduce the WMO below the maximum value according to NOM-138 SEMARNAT/SS or the naturally detected one. Soil impacted by WMO was biostimulated with CFE and GM and then phytoremediated by S. vulgare with R. irregularis and R. etli. The initial and final concentrations of WMO were analyzed. The phenology of S. vulgare and colonization of S. vulgaris roots by R. irregularis were measured. The results were statistically analyzed by ANOVA/Tukey’s HSD test. The WMO in soil that was biostimulated with CFE and GM, after 60 days, was reduced from 34,500 to 2066 ppm, and the mineralization of hydrocarbons from 12 to 27 carbons was detected. Subsequently, phytoremediation with S. vulgare and R. irregularis reduced the WMO to 86.9 ppm after 120 days, which is a concentration that guarantees the restoration of soil fertility for safe agricultural production for human and animal consumption.
Toxicological Effects of Copaiba Oil (Copaifera spp.) and Its Active Components
Authors: Cardinelli Camila Castanho , Silva Josiane Elizabeth Almeida e , Ribeiro Rayssa , Veiga-Junior Valdir F. , Santos Elisabete Pereira dos , de Freitas Zaida Maria Faria
Published: February 2023

Vegetable oils are among the most important traditional resources of Amazonia. Oleoresins are a type of oil that have interesting characteristics and highly bioactive properties with pharmacological potential. Oleoresins produced in the trunks of Copaifera (Fabaceae) spp. trees, known as copaiba oils, are made up of terpenes from the sesquiterpene (volatile) and diterpene (resinous) classes, but in amounts that vary between species and depending on several factors, such as soil type. Despite being used for medicinal purposes, via topical and oral application, the toxic effects of copaiba oils and their constituents are little known. The current paper reviews the toxicological studies, both in vitro and in vivo, described in the literature for copaiba oils, as well as the cytotoxic characteristics (against microorganisms and tumor cells) in in silico, in vitro and in vivo models for the sesquiterpenes and diterpenes that make up these oils.
Recurrent Interpopulation Selection in Popcorn: From Heterosis to Genetic Gains
Authors: Santos Junior Divino Rosa dos , Amaral Junior Antônio Teixeira do , Lima Valter Jário de , Leite Jhean Torres , Bispo Rosimeire Barboza , Azeredo Valdinei Cruz , Almeida Filho Janeo Eustáquio de , Kamphorst Samuel Henrique , Viana Flávia Nicácio , Ribeiro Rodrigo Moreira , Viana Alexandre Pio , Gravina Geraldo de Amaral
Published: February 2023

In view of the need to develop new popcorn cultivars and considering the uncertainties in choosing the most appropriate breeding methods to ensure consistent genetic progress, simultaneously for both popping expansion and grain yield, this study addressed the efficiency of interpopulation recurrent selection regarding genetic gains, the study of the response in genetic parameters as well as heterotic effects on the control of the main agronomic traits of popcorn. Two populations were established, Pop1 and Pop2. A total of 324 treatments were evaluated, which consisted of 200 half-sib families (100 from Pop1 and 100 from Pop2), 100 full-sib families from the two populations and 24 controls. The field experiment was arranged in a lattice design with three replications in two environments, in the north and northwest regions of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The genotype × environment interaction was partitioned and the genetic parameters, heterosis and predicted gains were estimated by the Mulamba and Mock index, based on selection results in both environments. The genetic parameters detected variability that can be explored in successive interpopulation recurrent selection cycles. Exploring heterosis for GY, PE and yield components is a promising option to increase grain yield and quality. The Mulamba and Mock index was efficient in predicting the genetic gains in GY and PE. Interpopulation recurrent selection proved effective to provide genetic gains for traits with predominantly additive and dominance inheritance.
Glyphosate-Induced Abscisic Acid Accumulation Causes Male Sterility in Sea Island Cotton
Authors: Qin Guoli , Zhao Nan , Wang Weiran , Wang Meng , Zhu Jiahui , Yang Jing , Lin Feng , Huang Xinglei , Zhang Yanhui , Min Ling , Chen Guodong , Kong Jie
Published: February 2023

Sea Island cotton is the best quality tetraploid cultivated cotton in the world, in terms of fiber quality. Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide in cotton production, and the improper use of herbicides has led to pollen abortion in sea island cotton and, consequently, to a dramatic decrease in yield; however, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, different concentrations (0, 3.75, 7.5, 15, and 30 g/L) of glyphosate were applied to CP4-EPSPS transgenic sea island cotton Xinchang 5 in 2021 and 2022 at Korla, with 15 g/L glyphosate chosen as the suitable concentration. By comparing the paraffin sections of 2–24 mm anthers in the 15 g/L glyphosate treatment group with those in the water control group, we showed that the key period of anther abortion after glyphosate treatment was the formation and development of tetrads, which corresponded to 8–9 mm buds. Transcriptome sequencing analysis of the treated and control anthers revealed a significant enrichment of differentially expressed genes in phytohormone-related pathways, in particular abscisic acid response and regulation pathways. Additionally, after treatment with 15 g/L of glyphosate, there was a significant increase in the amount of abscisic acid in the anthers in the 8–9 mm buds. Further analysis of the differential expression of abscisic acid response and regulatory genes, an abscisic acid response gene GbTCP14 (Gbar_A11G003090) was identified, which was significantly upregulated in buds with 15 g/L glyphosate treatment than the control, and it could be a key candidate gene for the subsequent research involving male sterility induced by glyphosate in sea island cotton.
Real-Time Monitoring of Pellet Plastication in a Full-Flight Screw and Kneading Disk Elements of a Co-Rotating Self-Wiping Twin-Screw Extruder by Acoustic Emission (AE) Sensing
Authors: Kida Tsukasa , Ohara Masatoshi , Inamori Keigo , Nagasawa Shogo , Kihara Shin-ichi , Taki Kentaro
Published: February 2023

The plastication of pellets in a co-rotating twin-screw extruder is a significant concern for product homogeneity and stability in the plastic industry. We developed a sensing technology for pellet plastication in a plastication and melting zone in a self-wiping co-rotating twin-screw extruder. The collapse of the solid part of the pellets emits an elastic wave as an acoustic emission (AE) that is measured on the kneading section of the twin-screw extruder using homo polypropylene pellets. The recorded power of the AE signal was used as an indicator of the molten volume fraction (MVF) in the range of zero (fully solid) to unity (fully melted). MVF decreased with increasing feed rate monotonically in the range of 2–9 kg/h at a screw rotation speed of 150 rotations per minute (rpm) because of the reduction in the residence time of pellets in the extruder. However, the increase in feed rate from 9 to 23 kg/h at 150 rpm resulted in an increase in the MVF as the friction and compaction of pellets caused their melting. The AE sensor could elucidate the pellet’s plastication phenomena caused by friction, compaction of pellets, and melt removal in the twin-screw extruder.
Developing Post-Consumer Recycled Flexible Polypropylene and Fumed Silica-Based Nanocomposites with Improved Processability and Thermal Stability
Authors: Velásquez Eliezer , Patiño Vidal Cristian , Copello Guillermo , López de Dicastillo Carol , Pérez C. J. , Guarda Abel , Galotto María José
Published: February 2023

Collection and mechanical recycling of post-consumer flexible polypropylene packaging is limited, principally due to polypropylene being very light-weight. Moreover, service life and thermal–mechanical reprocessing degrade PP and change its thermal and rheological properties according to the structure and provenance of recycled PP. This work determined the effect of incorporating two fumed nanosilica (NS) types on processability improvement of post-consumer recycled flexible polypropylene (PCPP) through ATR-FTIR, TGA, DSC, MFI and rheological analysis. Presence of trace polyethylene in the collected PCPP increased the thermal stability of the PP and was significantly maximized by NS addition. The onset decomposition temperature raised around 15 °C when 4 and 2 wt% of a non-treated and organically modified NS were used, respectively. NS acted as a nucleating agent and increased the crystallinity of the polymer, but the crystallization and melting temperatures were not affected. The processability of the nanocomposites was improved, observed as an increase in viscosity, storage and loss moduli with respect to the control PCPP, which were deteriorated due to chain scission during recycling. The highest recovery in viscosity and reduction in MFI were found for the hydrophilic NS due to a greater impact of hydrogen bond interactions between the silanol groups of this NS and the oxidized groups of the PCPP.
Efficiency of Neat and Quaternized-Cellulose Nanofibril Fillers in Chitosan Membranes for Direct Ethanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Hren Maša , Makuc Damjan , Plavec Janez , Roschger Michaela , Hacker Viktor , Genorio Boštjan , Božič Mojca , Gorgieva Selestina
Published: February 2023

In this work, fully polysaccharide based membranes were presented as self-standing, solid polyelectrolytes for application in anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). For this purpose, cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were modified successfully with an organosilane reagent, resulting in quaternized CNFs (CNF (D)), as shown by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Carbon-13 (C13) nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and ζ-potential measurements. Both the neat (CNF) and CNF(D) particles were incorporated in situ into the chitosan (CS) membrane during the solvent casting process, resulting in composite membranes that were studied extensively for morphology, potassium hydroxide (KOH) uptake and swelling ratio, ethanol (EtOH) permeability, mechanical properties, ionic conductivity, and cell performance. The results showed higher Young’s modulus (119%), tensile strength (91%), ion exchange capacity (177%), and ionic conductivity (33%) of the CS-based membranes compared to the commercial Fumatech membrane. The addition of CNF filler improved the thermal stability of the CS membranes and reduced the overall mass loss. The CNF (D) filler provided the lowest (4.23 × 10−5 cm2 s−1) EtOH permeability of the respective membrane, which is in the same range as that of the commercial membrane (3.47 × 10−5 cm2s−1). The most significant improvement (~78%) in power density at 80 °C was observed for the CS membrane with neat CNF compared to the commercial Fumatech membrane (62.4 mW cm−2 vs. 35.1 mW cm−2). Fuel cell tests showed that all CS-based anion exchange membranes (AEMs) exhibited higher maximum power densities than the commercial AEMs at 25 °C and 60 °C with humidified or non-humidified oxygen, demonstrating their potential for low-temperature direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) applications.
Latest Advances in Highly Efficient Dye-Based Photoinitiating Systems for Radical Polymerization
Authors: Balcerak Alicja , Kabatc-Borcz Janina , Czech Zbigniew , Bartkowiak Marcin
Published: February 2023

Light-activated polymerization is one of the most important and powerful strategies for fabrication of various types of advanced polymer materials. Because of many advantages, such as economy, efficiency, energy saving and being environmentally friendly, etc., photopolymerization is commonly used in different fields of science and technology. Generally, the initiation of polymerization reactions requires not only light energy but also the presence of a suitable photoinitiator (PI) in the photocurable composition. In recent years, dye-based photoinitiating systems have revolutionized and conquered the global market of innovative PIs. Since then, numerous photoinitiators for radical polymerization containing different organic dyes as light absorbers have been proposed. However, despite the large number of initiators designed, this topic is still relevant today. The interest towards dye-based photoinitiating systems continues to gain in importance, which is related to the need for new initiators capable of effectively initiating chain reactions under mild conditions. In this paper we present the most important information about photoinitiated radical polymerization. We describe the main directions for the application of this technique in various areas. Attention is mainly focused on the review of high-performance radical photoinitiators containing different sensitizers. Moreover, we present our latest achievements in the field of modern dye-based photoinitiating systems for the radical polymerization of acrylates.