PeerJ
type: channel
link: https://peerj.com/articles/
description: Articles published in PeerJ
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
publication name: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359
items: Non-destructive insect metabarcoding for surveillance and biosecurity in citrus orchards: recording the good, the bad and the psyllids
items: Evaluation of a biosecurity survey approach for contamination by Chlamydia pecorum in koala rehabilitation, field capture, and captive settings
items: Morphological changes in female reproductive organs in the African monarch butterfly, host to a male-killing Spiroplasma
items: Repetition velocity as a measure of loading intensity in the free weight and Smith machine Bulgarian split squat
items: Parent perceptions regarding virtual pediatric dental clinics during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
items: Chemical diversity and antifouling activity of geniculate calcareous algae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) from Brazil
items: Green inspired synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Silybum marianum (milk thistle) extract and evaluation of their potential pesticidal and phytopathogens activities
items: Lethal and sublethal effects of flubendiamide and spirotetramat against the leaf worm, Spodoptera litura(Fabricius) under laboratory conditions
items: Response surface methodology for the mixed fungal fermentation of Codonopsis pilosula straw using Trichoderma reesei and Coprinus comatus
items: Tailored modulation of S100A1 and RASSF8 expression by butanediamide augments healing of rotator cuff tears

Non-destructive insect metabarcoding for surveillance and biosecurity in citrus orchards: recording the good, the bad and the psyllids
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background The Australian citrus industry remains one of the few in the world to be unaffected by the African and the Asian citrus psyllids, Trioza erytreae Del Guercio and Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, respectively, and the diseases their vectored bacteria can cause. Surveillance, early detection, and strict quarantine measures are therefore fundamental to safeguard Australian citrus. However, long-term targeted surveillance for exotic citrus pests can be a time-consuming and expensive activity, often relying on manually screening large numbers of trap samples and morphological identification of specimens, which requires a high level of taxonomic knowledge. Methods Here we evaluated the use of non-destructive insect metabarcoding for exotic pest surveillance in citrus orchards. We conducted an 11-week field trial, between the months of December and February, at a horticultural research farm (SuniTAFE Smart Farm) in the Northwest of Victoria, Australia, and processed more than 250 samples collected from three types of invertebrate traps across four sites. Results The whole-community metabarcoding data enabled comparisons between different trapping methods, demonstrated the spatial variation of insect diversity across the same orchard, and highlighted how comprehensive assessment of insect biodiversity requires use of multiple complimentary trapping methods. In addition to revealing the diversity of native psyllid species in citrus orchards, the non-targeted metabarcoding approach identified a diversity of other pest and beneficial insects and arachnids within the trap bycatch, and recorded the presence of the triozid Casuarinicola cf warrigalensis for the first time in Victoria. Ultimately, this work highlights how a non-targeted surveillance approach for insect monitoring coupled with non-destructive DNA metabarcoding can provide accurate and high-throughput species identification for biosecurity and biodiversity monitoring.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Francesco Martoni
creator: Reannon Smith
creator: Alexander M. Piper
creator: Jessica Lye
creator: Conrad Trollip
creator: Brendan C. Rodoni
creator: Mark J. Blacket
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Genetics
subject: Molecular Biology
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15831
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Martoni et al.
abstract: Background The Australian citrus industry remains one of the few in the world to be unaffected by the African and the Asian citrus psyllids, Trioza erytreae Del Guercio and Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, respectively, and the diseases their vectored bacteria can cause. Surveillance, early detection, and strict quarantine measures are therefore fundamental to safeguard Australian citrus. However, long-term targeted surveillance for exotic citrus pests can be a time-consuming and expensive activity, often relying on manually screening large numbers of trap samples and morphological identification of specimens, which requires a high level of taxonomic knowledge. Methods Here we evaluated the use of non-destructive insect metabarcoding for exotic pest surveillance in citrus orchards. We conducted an 11-week field trial, between the months of December and February, at a horticultural research farm (SuniTAFE Smart Farm) in the Northwest of Victoria, Australia, and processed more than 250 samples collected from three types of invertebrate traps across four sites. Results The whole-community metabarcoding data enabled comparisons between different trapping methods, demonstrated the spatial variation of insect diversity across the same orchard, and highlighted how comprehensive assessment of insect biodiversity requires use of multiple complimentary trapping methods. In addition to revealing the diversity of native psyllid species in citrus orchards, the non-targeted metabarcoding approach identified a diversity of other pest and beneficial insects and arachnids within the trap bycatch, and recorded the presence of the triozid Casuarinicola cf warrigalensis for the first time in Victoria. Ultimately, this work highlights how a non-targeted surveillance approach for insect monitoring coupled with non-destructive DNA metabarcoding can provide accurate and high-throughput species identification for biosecurity and biodiversity monitoring.
bibliographic citation: Martoni et al. (2023) Non-destructive insect metabarcoding for surveillance and biosecurity in citrus orchards: recording the good, the bad and the psyllids. PeerJ 11:e15831 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15831
date submitted: 2023-05-02
date accepted: 2023-07-11
issued: 2023-08-15
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Martoni
  given name: Francesco
author list: Agent
  family name: Smith
  given name: Reannon
author list: Agent
  family name: Piper
  given name: Alexander M.
author list: Agent
  family name: Lye
  given name: Jessica
author list: Agent
  family name: Trollip
  given name: Conrad
author list: Agent
  family name: Rodoni
  given name: Brendan C.
author list: Agent
  family name: Blacket
  given name: Mark J.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15831
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-15
copyright: © 2023 Martoni et al.
attribution name: Martoni et al.

Evaluation of a biosecurity survey approach for contamination by Chlamydia pecorum in koala rehabilitation, field capture, and captive settings
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Transmission of Chlamydia pecorum between koalas is a potential risk in field capture or rehabilitation settings, where koalas are held in proximity to each other, or equipment is shared between animals. Given the impact of C. pecorum on koala welfare and population viability it is surprising that quarantine and disinfection protocols in a koala rehabilitation facility or capture settings have not previously been evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate an approach, based on the detection of chlamydial DNA and cell viability, to determine the degree of environmental contamination within a koala care facility. Various fomite sites associated with koala care at a koala rehabilitation facility in New South Wales, Australia were identified as potential sources of chlamydial contamination, following exposure to koalas known to be infected with C. pecorum. Fomite sites were swabbed following exposure, and again after decontamination procedures were carried out. Samples were tested for the presence of chlamydial DNA using qPCR and viability using both RT-qPCR and cell culture. From a total of 239 sampling events, 30 tested qPCR positive for chlamydial DNA, with 19 and 11 samples corresponding to pre-decontamination and post-decontamination events respectively. Detection of chlamydial DNA appeared to be most common in the examination room, especially on fomite sites in direct contact with koalas. Physical removal of chlamydial DNA, or its degradation by the elements, appeared to be more common on outdoor enclosures, clothing, and hands. Based on the cell culture assay, of the pre-decontamination samples with chlamydial DNA, eight had viable chlamydial cells, two of these at low levels. Of the post-decontamination samples with chlamydial DNA, one had a moderate number, and one had a very low number of viable chlamydial cells. RT-qPCR was unsuccessful in determining cell viability due to low yields of RNA and high levels of contaminants from the environmental samples. The outc…
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Andrea Casteriano
creator: Astrid Robin Van Aggelen
creator: Shali Fischer
creator: Cheyne Flanagan
creator: Caroline Marschner
creator: Hannah Nugent
creator: Wilhelmina Huston
creator: Damien P. Higgins
subject: Microbiology
subject: Molecular Biology
subject: Veterinary Medicine
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15842
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Casteriano et al.
abstract: Transmission of Chlamydia pecorum between koalas is a potential risk in field capture or rehabilitation settings, where koalas are held in proximity to each other, or equipment is shared between animals. Given the impact of C. pecorum on koala welfare and population viability it is surprising that quarantine and disinfection protocols in a koala rehabilitation facility or capture settings have not previously been evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate an approach, based on the detection of chlamydial DNA and cell viability, to determine the degree of environmental contamination within a koala care facility. Various fomite sites associated with koala care at a koala rehabilitation facility in New South Wales, Australia were identified as potential sources of chlamydial contamination, following exposure to koalas known to be infected with C. pecorum. Fomite sites were swabbed following exposure, and again after decontamination procedures were carried out. Samples were tested for the presence of chlamydial DNA using qPCR and viability using both RT-qPCR and cell culture. From a total of 239 sampling events, 30 tested qPCR positive for chlamydial DNA, with 19 and 11 samples corresponding to pre-decontamination and post-decontamination events respectively. Detection of chlamydial DNA appeared to be most common in the examination room, especially on fomite sites in direct contact with koalas. Physical removal of chlamydial DNA, or its degradation by the elements, appeared to be more common on outdoor enclosures, clothing, and hands. Based on the cell culture assay, of the pre-decontamination samples with chlamydial DNA, eight had viable chlamydial cells, two of these at low levels. Of the post-decontamination samples with chlamydial DNA, one had a moderate number, and one had a very low number of viable chlamydial cells. RT-qPCR was unsuccessful in determining cell viability due to low yields of RNA and high levels of contaminants from the environmental samples. The outc…
bibliographic citation: Casteriano et al. (2023) Evaluation of a biosecurity survey approach for contamination by Chlamydia pecorum in koala rehabilitation, field capture, and captive settings. PeerJ 11:e15842 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15842
date submitted: 2023-03-26
date accepted: 2023-07-12
issued: 2023-08-15
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Casteriano
  given name: Andrea
author list: Agent
  family name: Van Aggelen
  given name: Astrid Robin
author list: Agent
  family name: Fischer
  given name: Shali
author list: Agent
  family name: Flanagan
  given name: Cheyne
author list: Agent
  family name: Marschner
  given name: Caroline
author list: Agent
  family name: Nugent
  given name: Hannah
author list: Agent
  family name: Huston
  given name: Wilhelmina
author list: Agent
  family name: Higgins
  given name: Damien P.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15842
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-15
copyright: © 2023 Casteriano et al.
attribution name: Casteriano et al.

Morphological changes in female reproductive organs in the African monarch butterfly, host to a male-killing Spiroplasma
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background Sexual selection and conflicts within and between sexes promote morphological diversity of reproductive traits within species. Variation in the morphology of diagnostic reproductive characters within species offer an excellent opportunity to study these evolutionary processes as drivers of species diversification. The African monarch, Danaus chrysippus (Linnaeus, 1758), is widespread across Africa. The species is polytypic, with the respective geographical ranges of the four colour morphs only overlapping in East Africa. Furthermore, some of the populations host an endosymbiotic bacterium, Spiroplasma, which induces son-killing and distorts the local host population sex-ratio, creating sexual conflicts between the females seeking to optimize their fecundity and the limited mating capacity of the rare males. Methods We dissected females from Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa, where Spiroplasma vary in presence and prevalence (high, variable and absent, respectively), and conducted microscopy imaging of their reproductive organs. We then characterized the effect of population, female body size, and female mating status, on the size and shape of different genitalia characters of the D. chrysippus female butterflies. Results We showed that although the general morphology of the organs is conserved in D. chrysippus, female genitalia vary in size and shape between and within populations. The virgin females have smaller organs, while the same organs were expanded in mated females. Females from highly female-biased populations, where the male-killing Spiroplasma is prevalent, also have a larger area of their corpus bursae covered with signa structures. However, this pattern occurs because a larger proportion of the females remains virgin in the female-biased populations rather than because of male depletion due to the symbiont, as males from sex-ratio distorted populations did not produce significantly smaller nutritious spermatophores.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Jenny Malmberg
creator: Simon H. Martin
creator: Ian J. Gordon
creator: Pasi Sihvonen
creator: Anne Duplouy
subject: Entomology
subject: Evolutionary Studies
subject: Microbiology
subject: Zoology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15853
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Malmberg et al.
abstract: Background Sexual selection and conflicts within and between sexes promote morphological diversity of reproductive traits within species. Variation in the morphology of diagnostic reproductive characters within species offer an excellent opportunity to study these evolutionary processes as drivers of species diversification. The African monarch, Danaus chrysippus (Linnaeus, 1758), is widespread across Africa. The species is polytypic, with the respective geographical ranges of the four colour morphs only overlapping in East Africa. Furthermore, some of the populations host an endosymbiotic bacterium, Spiroplasma, which induces son-killing and distorts the local host population sex-ratio, creating sexual conflicts between the females seeking to optimize their fecundity and the limited mating capacity of the rare males. Methods We dissected females from Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa, where Spiroplasma vary in presence and prevalence (high, variable and absent, respectively), and conducted microscopy imaging of their reproductive organs. We then characterized the effect of population, female body size, and female mating status, on the size and shape of different genitalia characters of the D. chrysippus female butterflies. Results We showed that although the general morphology of the organs is conserved in D. chrysippus, female genitalia vary in size and shape between and within populations. The virgin females have smaller organs, while the same organs were expanded in mated females. Females from highly female-biased populations, where the male-killing Spiroplasma is prevalent, also have a larger area of their corpus bursae covered with signa structures. However, this pattern occurs because a larger proportion of the females remains virgin in the female-biased populations rather than because of male depletion due to the symbiont, as males from sex-ratio distorted populations did not produce significantly smaller nutritious spermatophores.
bibliographic citation: Malmberg et al. (2023) Morphological changes in female reproductive organs in the African monarch butterfly, host to a male-killing Spiroplasma. PeerJ 11:e15853 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15853
date submitted: 2023-03-17
date accepted: 2023-07-16
issued: 2023-08-15
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Malmberg
  given name: Jenny
author list: Agent
  family name: Martin
  given name: Simon H.
author list: Agent
  family name: Gordon
  given name: Ian J.
author list: Agent
  family name: Sihvonen
  given name: Pasi
author list: Agent
  family name: Duplouy
  given name: Anne
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15853
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-15
copyright: © 2023 Malmberg et al.
attribution name: Malmberg et al.

Repetition velocity as a measure of loading intensity in the free weight and Smith machine Bulgarian split squat
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: This study investigated the grouped and individualized load-velocity profile (GLVP vs. ILVP) in Bulgarian split squat using Smith machine and free weight. Seventy five recreational male lifters completed two incremental loading tests of Bulgarian split squat. Mean velocity was measured by a linear-position transducer (GymAware). Linear regression equation was applied to construct the GLVP and ILVP. The agreement of predicted %1RM and measured %1RM was assessed by a combination of intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of measurement (SEM) and Bland-Altman analysis. Acceptable validity was defined as ICC > 0.75, CV ≤ 10% and p ≥ 0.05 (a paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test). A very high level of inverse load-velocity relationships were demonstrated in Bulgarian split squat (r = − 0.92) with free weights and a Smith machine. ILVP (ICC ≥ 0.98, CV ≤ 8.73%, p ≥ 0.56) was valid enough to predict the %1RM, but GLVP of both limbs revealed large CVs in free weights (CV: 15.4%,15.63%) and a Smith machine (CV: 11.24%, 12.25%). Cross-validation between the actual %1RM and predicted %1RM using free weights and a Smith machine ILVP was not acceptable (p ≤ 0.03, CV ≥ 14.07%). A very high level of inverse relationship were observed between %1RM and MV in Bulgarian split squat using free weights and a Smith machine, indicating individualized load velocity properties, and the ILVP showed high between-devices variability in both scenarios. Using velocity as a measure of loading intensity in Bulgarian split squat needs to consider the individualized load velocity properties, and difference between free weights and a Smith machine.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Kaifang Liao
creator: Chao Bian
creator: Zhili Chen
creator: Zhihang Yuan
creator: Chris Bishop
creator: Mengyuan Han
creator: Yongming Li
creator: Yong Zheng
subject: Kinesiology
subject: Biomechanics
subject: Sports Medicine
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15863
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Liao et al.
abstract: This study investigated the grouped and individualized load-velocity profile (GLVP vs. ILVP) in Bulgarian split squat using Smith machine and free weight. Seventy five recreational male lifters completed two incremental loading tests of Bulgarian split squat. Mean velocity was measured by a linear-position transducer (GymAware). Linear regression equation was applied to construct the GLVP and ILVP. The agreement of predicted %1RM and measured %1RM was assessed by a combination of intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of measurement (SEM) and Bland-Altman analysis. Acceptable validity was defined as ICC > 0.75, CV ≤ 10% and p ≥ 0.05 (a paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test). A very high level of inverse load-velocity relationships were demonstrated in Bulgarian split squat (r = − 0.92) with free weights and a Smith machine. ILVP (ICC ≥ 0.98, CV ≤ 8.73%, p ≥ 0.56) was valid enough to predict the %1RM, but GLVP of both limbs revealed large CVs in free weights (CV: 15.4%,15.63%) and a Smith machine (CV: 11.24%, 12.25%). Cross-validation between the actual %1RM and predicted %1RM using free weights and a Smith machine ILVP was not acceptable (p ≤ 0.03, CV ≥ 14.07%). A very high level of inverse relationship were observed between %1RM and MV in Bulgarian split squat using free weights and a Smith machine, indicating individualized load velocity properties, and the ILVP showed high between-devices variability in both scenarios. Using velocity as a measure of loading intensity in Bulgarian split squat needs to consider the individualized load velocity properties, and difference between free weights and a Smith machine.
bibliographic citation: Liao et al. (2023) Repetition velocity as a measure of loading intensity in the free weight and Smith machine Bulgarian split squat. PeerJ 11:e15863 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15863
date submitted: 2023-02-10
date accepted: 2023-07-17
issued: 2023-08-15
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Liao
  given name: Kaifang
author list: Agent
  family name: Bian
  given name: Chao
author list: Agent
  family name: Chen
  given name: Zhili
author list: Agent
  family name: Yuan
  given name: Zhihang
author list: Agent
  family name: Bishop
  given name: Chris
author list: Agent
  family name: Han
  given name: Mengyuan
author list: Agent
  family name: Li
  given name: Yongming
author list: Agent
  family name: Zheng
  given name: Yong
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15863
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-15
copyright: ©2023 Liao et al.
attribution name: Liao et al.

Parent perceptions regarding virtual pediatric dental clinics during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objective To assess the attitudes and responses of parents of pediatric patients towards virtual dental clinics during COVID-19. Material and Method A total of 102 parents of pediatric patients who were scheduled for virtual (video or telephonic) clinic appointments for new patient consultations and follow-up clinics were included in the study. Parents and patients could attend the virtual clinic from a personal computer, tablet, or smartphone. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was sent to the parents through email after consultation (video or telephonic) which consisted of demographic data and a ten-item, five-point Likert-scale assessing: (i) parent satisfaction; (ii) ease of use; (iii) the effectiveness including increasing access to clinical services; (iv) reliability of the teledentistry system and (v) usefulness for patients. Statistical analyses used were t-test, one-way ANOVA test, Shapiro–Wilk and histogram. Result Out of 102 parents, 52 attended video clinics and 50 attended the telephonic clinic. The majority of the parents were between 30–39 years of age, and about 73% had no previous experience with either virtual or telephonic consultation. Ninety-four percent of parents were satisfied with vide clinic consultation, and most of them agreed that accessing clinical services through a video clinic was easy to understand, comfortable, and time-saving. The majority of the parents (94%) agreed and strongly agreed that they will use video clinics again in the future for consultation. Conclusion Parents’ response to the use of virtual clinics for pediatric dentistry during COVID was positive. The majority of the parents stated that they would consider using teledentistry for future consultation.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Sara Ayid Alghamdi
subject: Dentistry
subject: COVID-19
subject: Healthcare Services
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15289
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Alghamdi
abstract: Objective To assess the attitudes and responses of parents of pediatric patients towards virtual dental clinics during COVID-19. Material and Method A total of 102 parents of pediatric patients who were scheduled for virtual (video or telephonic) clinic appointments for new patient consultations and follow-up clinics were included in the study. Parents and patients could attend the virtual clinic from a personal computer, tablet, or smartphone. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was sent to the parents through email after consultation (video or telephonic) which consisted of demographic data and a ten-item, five-point Likert-scale assessing: (i) parent satisfaction; (ii) ease of use; (iii) the effectiveness including increasing access to clinical services; (iv) reliability of the teledentistry system and (v) usefulness for patients. Statistical analyses used were t-test, one-way ANOVA test, Shapiro–Wilk and histogram. Result Out of 102 parents, 52 attended video clinics and 50 attended the telephonic clinic. The majority of the parents were between 30–39 years of age, and about 73% had no previous experience with either virtual or telephonic consultation. Ninety-four percent of parents were satisfied with vide clinic consultation, and most of them agreed that accessing clinical services through a video clinic was easy to understand, comfortable, and time-saving. The majority of the parents (94%) agreed and strongly agreed that they will use video clinics again in the future for consultation. Conclusion Parents’ response to the use of virtual clinics for pediatric dentistry during COVID was positive. The majority of the parents stated that they would consider using teledentistry for future consultation.
bibliographic citation: Alghamdi (2023) Parent perceptions regarding virtual pediatric dental clinics during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study. PeerJ 11:e15289 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15289
date submitted: 2022-08-18
date accepted: 2023-04-04
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Alghamdi
  given name: Sara Ayid
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15289
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: ©2023 Alghamdi
attribution name: Alghamdi

Chemical diversity and antifouling activity of geniculate calcareous algae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) from Brazil
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Marine biofouling is a natural process by which many organisms colonize and grow in submerged structures, causing serious economic consequences for the maritime industry. Geniculate calcareous algae (GCA; Corallinales, Rhodophyta) produce bioactive secondary metabolites and are a promise for new antifouling compounds. Here, we investigated the antifouling activity of four GCA species—Amphiroa beauvoisii, Jania sagittata (formerly Cheilosporum sagittatum), Jania crassa, and Jania prolifera (formerly Amphiroa flabellata)—from the Brazilian coast against macro- and microorganisms. Simultaneously, metabolomic tools were applied to assess the chemical profiles of these seaweeds using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data analysis by principal component and molecular networking analyses used the global natural products social molecular networking platform (GNPS). Our results showed that all extracts were active against different strains of marine bacteria and that the J. sagittata (JsSI) extract showed the highest percentage of bacterial inhibition. The J. sagittata (JsSI) extract was the most active against the mussel Perna perna, showing 100% byssus inhibition. Regarding toxicity, only the J. crassa (JcP) extract showed a 20% mortality rate. The chemical profiles of the evaluated GCA extracts differed qualitatively and quantitatively. Yet, the steroid (3β)-cholest-5-en-3-ol was the major compound commonly identified in all extracts, with the exception of J. sagittata (JsSI). Moreover, we observed intra- and interspecific chemical variabilities among GCA extracts for the different populations, which could explain their antifouling activity variability. This study contributed new information about the chemical compounds produced by this group of seaweeds and showed its antifouling potential. These GCA species may be the subject of future studies to obtain new bioactive compounds with biotechnological potential in maritime areas.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Ellen A. de S. Oliveira
creator: Juliana de A.S. Oliveira
creator: Priscila R. Araújo
creator: Frederico T.S. Tâmega
creator: Ricardo Coutinho
creator: Angelica R. Soares
subject: Biodiversity
subject: Biotechnology
subject: Plant Science
subject: Aquatic and Marine Chemistry
subject: Biological Oceanography
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15731
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Oliveira et al.
abstract: Marine biofouling is a natural process by which many organisms colonize and grow in submerged structures, causing serious economic consequences for the maritime industry. Geniculate calcareous algae (GCA; Corallinales, Rhodophyta) produce bioactive secondary metabolites and are a promise for new antifouling compounds. Here, we investigated the antifouling activity of four GCA species—Amphiroa beauvoisii, Jania sagittata (formerly Cheilosporum sagittatum), Jania crassa, and Jania prolifera (formerly Amphiroa flabellata)—from the Brazilian coast against macro- and microorganisms. Simultaneously, metabolomic tools were applied to assess the chemical profiles of these seaweeds using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data analysis by principal component and molecular networking analyses used the global natural products social molecular networking platform (GNPS). Our results showed that all extracts were active against different strains of marine bacteria and that the J. sagittata (JsSI) extract showed the highest percentage of bacterial inhibition. The J. sagittata (JsSI) extract was the most active against the mussel Perna perna, showing 100% byssus inhibition. Regarding toxicity, only the J. crassa (JcP) extract showed a 20% mortality rate. The chemical profiles of the evaluated GCA extracts differed qualitatively and quantitatively. Yet, the steroid (3β)-cholest-5-en-3-ol was the major compound commonly identified in all extracts, with the exception of J. sagittata (JsSI). Moreover, we observed intra- and interspecific chemical variabilities among GCA extracts for the different populations, which could explain their antifouling activity variability. This study contributed new information about the chemical compounds produced by this group of seaweeds and showed its antifouling potential. These GCA species may be the subject of future studies to obtain new bioactive compounds with biotechnological potential in maritime areas.
bibliographic citation: Oliveira et al. (2023) Chemical diversity and antifouling activity of geniculate calcareous algae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) from Brazil. PeerJ 11:e15731 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15731
date submitted: 2023-01-31
date accepted: 2023-06-18
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Oliveira
  given name: Ellen A. de S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Oliveira
  given name: Juliana de A.S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Araújo
  given name: Priscila R.
author list: Agent
  family name: Tâmega
  given name: Frederico T.S.
author list: Agent
  family name: Coutinho
  given name: Ricardo
author list: Agent
  family name: Soares
  given name: Angelica R.
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15731
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: ©2023 Oliveira et al.
attribution name: Oliveira et al.

Green inspired synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Silybum marianum (milk thistle) extract and evaluation of their potential pesticidal and phytopathogens activities
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Background The green approaches for the synthesis of nanoparticles are gaining significant importance because of their high productivity, purity, low cost, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness. Methods The aim of the current study is the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using seed extracts of Silybum marianum, which acts as a reducing and stabilizing agent. central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) optimized synthesis parameters (temperature, pH, reaction time, plant extract, and salt concentration) for controlled size, stability, and maximum yields of ZnO-NPs. Green synthesized ZnO-NPs was characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy and Zetasizer analyses. Results The Zetasizer confirmed that green synthesized ZnO-NPs were 51.80 nm in size and monodispersed in nature. The UV-visible results revealed a large band gap energy in the visible region at 360.5 nm wavelength. The bioactivities of green synthesized ZnO-NPs, including antifungal, antibacterial, and pesticidal, were also evaluated. Data analysis confirmed that these activities were concentration dependent. Bio-synthesized ZnO-NPs showed higher mortality towards Tribolium castaneum of about 78 ± 0.57% after 72 h observation as compared to Sitophilus oryzae, which only displayed 74 ± 0.57% at the same concentration and time intervals. Plant-mediated ZnO-NPs also showed high potential against pathogenic gram-positive bacteria (Clavibacter michiganensis), gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas syringae), and two fungal strains such as Fusarium oxysporum, and Aspergillums niger with inhibition zones of 18 ± 0.4, 25 ± 0.4, 21 ± 0.57, and 19 ± 0.4 mm, respectively. Conclusion The results of this study showed that Silybum marianum-based ZnO-NPs are cost-effective and efficient against crop pests.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Nazish Jahan
creator: Kousar Rasheed
creator: Khalil-Ur- Rahman
creator: Abu Hazafa
creator: Amna Saleem
creator: Saud Alamri
creator: Muhammad Omer Iqbal
creator: Md Atikur Rahman
subject: Biotechnology
subject: Microbiology
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15743
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Jahan et al.
abstract: Background The green approaches for the synthesis of nanoparticles are gaining significant importance because of their high productivity, purity, low cost, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness. Methods The aim of the current study is the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using seed extracts of Silybum marianum, which acts as a reducing and stabilizing agent. central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) optimized synthesis parameters (temperature, pH, reaction time, plant extract, and salt concentration) for controlled size, stability, and maximum yields of ZnO-NPs. Green synthesized ZnO-NPs was characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy and Zetasizer analyses. Results The Zetasizer confirmed that green synthesized ZnO-NPs were 51.80 nm in size and monodispersed in nature. The UV-visible results revealed a large band gap energy in the visible region at 360.5 nm wavelength. The bioactivities of green synthesized ZnO-NPs, including antifungal, antibacterial, and pesticidal, were also evaluated. Data analysis confirmed that these activities were concentration dependent. Bio-synthesized ZnO-NPs showed higher mortality towards Tribolium castaneum of about 78 ± 0.57% after 72 h observation as compared to Sitophilus oryzae, which only displayed 74 ± 0.57% at the same concentration and time intervals. Plant-mediated ZnO-NPs also showed high potential against pathogenic gram-positive bacteria (Clavibacter michiganensis), gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas syringae), and two fungal strains such as Fusarium oxysporum, and Aspergillums niger with inhibition zones of 18 ± 0.4, 25 ± 0.4, 21 ± 0.57, and 19 ± 0.4 mm, respectively. Conclusion The results of this study showed that Silybum marianum-based ZnO-NPs are cost-effective and efficient against crop pests.
bibliographic citation: Jahan et al. (2023) Green inspired synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Silybum marianum (milk thistle) extract and evaluation of their potential pesticidal and phytopathogens activities. PeerJ 11:e15743 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15743
date submitted: 2023-03-23
date accepted: 2023-06-21
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Jahan
  given name: Nazish
author list: Agent
  family name: Rasheed
  given name: Kousar
author list: Agent
  family name: Rahman
  given name: Khalil-Ur-
author list: Agent
  family name: Hazafa
  given name: Abu
author list: Agent
  family name: Saleem
  given name: Amna
author list: Agent
  family name: Alamri
  given name: Saud
author list: Agent
  family name: Iqbal
  given name: Muhammad Omer
author list: Agent
  family name: Rahman
  given name: Md Atikur
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15743
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: © 2023 Jahan et al.
attribution name: Jahan et al.

Lethal and sublethal effects of flubendiamide and spirotetramat against the leaf worm, Spodoptera litura(Fabricius) under laboratory conditions
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: The leaf worm, Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a notorious insect pest of many economically important cultivated crops like cotton, maize, tobocco and vegetables causing severe economic losses from 50–100%. In most crops, damage arises due to voracious feeding by the larvae and leads to the skeletonizing of leaves. Toxicological studies were performed to estimate lethal and sublethal levels of flubendiamide and spirotetramat against S. litura. Effects of these estimated values were assessed on different biological traits of S. litura including life duration, survival and next generation potential. Both flubendiamide and spirotetramat showed toxic responses against second instar larvae of S. litura under laboratory conditions. Larval duration and survival rate of S. litura to were significantly different. Exposure to test insecticides resulted in negative effect on the demography of S. litura as longer life cycle and decreased fecundity. Changes in net reproductive rate and intrinsic rate of increase also helped to decide the fate of these insecticides. Low reproductive potential and low hatching percentage due to exposure to test insecticides can help to manage next generation of target pest. These two new chemistry insecticides can be recommended for their effective and long-term utilization against this important leaf feeder which may help its management and decrease economic losses faced by the growers. Their impact on larval duration and low survival rate at lethal levels guides about their potential in pest control.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Erum un-Nisa
creator: Munir Ahmad
creator: Umer Ayyaz Aslam Sheikh
creator: Muhammad Imran
creator: Nighat Perveen
creator: Junaid Rahim
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Entomology
subject: Toxicology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15745
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 un-Nisa et al.
abstract: The leaf worm, Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a notorious insect pest of many economically important cultivated crops like cotton, maize, tobocco and vegetables causing severe economic losses from 50–100%. In most crops, damage arises due to voracious feeding by the larvae and leads to the skeletonizing of leaves. Toxicological studies were performed to estimate lethal and sublethal levels of flubendiamide and spirotetramat against S. litura. Effects of these estimated values were assessed on different biological traits of S. litura including life duration, survival and next generation potential. Both flubendiamide and spirotetramat showed toxic responses against second instar larvae of S. litura under laboratory conditions. Larval duration and survival rate of S. litura to were significantly different. Exposure to test insecticides resulted in negative effect on the demography of S. litura as longer life cycle and decreased fecundity. Changes in net reproductive rate and intrinsic rate of increase also helped to decide the fate of these insecticides. Low reproductive potential and low hatching percentage due to exposure to test insecticides can help to manage next generation of target pest. These two new chemistry insecticides can be recommended for their effective and long-term utilization against this important leaf feeder which may help its management and decrease economic losses faced by the growers. Their impact on larval duration and low survival rate at lethal levels guides about their potential in pest control.
bibliographic citation: un-Nisa et al. (2023) Lethal and sublethal effects of flubendiamide and spirotetramat against the leaf worm, Spodoptera litura(Fabricius) under laboratory conditions. PeerJ 11:e15745 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15745
date submitted: 2023-01-03
date accepted: 2023-06-22
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: un-Nisa
  given name: Erum
author list: Agent
  family name: Ahmad
  given name: Munir
author list: Agent
  family name: Sheikh
  given name: Umer Ayyaz Aslam
author list: Agent
  family name: Imran
  given name: Muhammad
author list: Agent
  family name: Perveen
  given name: Nighat
author list: Agent
  family name: Rahim
  given name: Junaid
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15745
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: ©2023 un-Nisa et al.
attribution name: un-Nisa et al.

Response surface methodology for the mixed fungal fermentation of Codonopsis pilosula straw using Trichoderma reesei and Coprinus comatus
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: The objective of this study was to investigate the cellulose degradation rate (CDR) and lignin degradation rate (LDR) of Codonopsis pilosula straw (CPS) and the optimal fermentation parameters for mixed fungal fermentation. Single-factor tests were used to study the effects of the fungal ratio (Trichoderma reesei: Coprinus comatus), fungal inoculum, corn flour content, and fermentation time on the degradation rate of cellulose and lignin. Based on the results of this experiment, the optimal fermentation factors were identified, and the effects of various factors and their interactions on the degradation rates of cellulose and lignin were further evaluated using the response surface method. The quadratic polynomial mathematical model of degradation rates of the cellulose and lignin in CPS by mixed fungus fermentation was established using Design Expert software v8.0.6. Under the optimal parameters for fungal fermentation of CPS straw (fungal ratio 4:6, fungal inoculum 8%, corn flour content 10%, fermentation time of 15 d), the CDR and LDR reached 13.65% and 10.73%, respectively. Collectively, the mixed fungal fermentation of CPS resulted in decreased lignin and cellulose content, better retention of nutrients, and enhanced fermentation quality. The results of this study indicate that fermentation using Trichoderma reesei and Coprinus comatus is a productive method for straw degradation, providing a theoretical basis for the development of CPS as feed.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Ti Wei
creator: Hongfu Chen
creator: Dengyu Wu
creator: Dandan Gao
creator: Yong Cai
creator: Xin Cao
creator: Hongwei Xu
creator: Jutian Yang
creator: Penghui Guo
subject: Agricultural Science
subject: Microbiology
subject: Mycology
subject: Plant Science
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15757
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Wei et al.
abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the cellulose degradation rate (CDR) and lignin degradation rate (LDR) of Codonopsis pilosula straw (CPS) and the optimal fermentation parameters for mixed fungal fermentation. Single-factor tests were used to study the effects of the fungal ratio (Trichoderma reesei: Coprinus comatus), fungal inoculum, corn flour content, and fermentation time on the degradation rate of cellulose and lignin. Based on the results of this experiment, the optimal fermentation factors were identified, and the effects of various factors and their interactions on the degradation rates of cellulose and lignin were further evaluated using the response surface method. The quadratic polynomial mathematical model of degradation rates of the cellulose and lignin in CPS by mixed fungus fermentation was established using Design Expert software v8.0.6. Under the optimal parameters for fungal fermentation of CPS straw (fungal ratio 4:6, fungal inoculum 8%, corn flour content 10%, fermentation time of 15 d), the CDR and LDR reached 13.65% and 10.73%, respectively. Collectively, the mixed fungal fermentation of CPS resulted in decreased lignin and cellulose content, better retention of nutrients, and enhanced fermentation quality. The results of this study indicate that fermentation using Trichoderma reesei and Coprinus comatus is a productive method for straw degradation, providing a theoretical basis for the development of CPS as feed.
bibliographic citation: Wei et al. (2023) Response surface methodology for the mixed fungal fermentation of Codonopsis pilosula straw using Trichoderma reesei and Coprinus comatus. PeerJ 11:e15757 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15757
date submitted: 2022-10-10
date accepted: 2023-06-26
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Wei
  given name: Ti
author list: Agent
  family name: Chen
  given name: Hongfu
author list: Agent
  family name: Wu
  given name: Dengyu
author list: Agent
  family name: Gao
  given name: Dandan
author list: Agent
  family name: Cai
  given name: Yong
author list: Agent
  family name: Cao
  given name: Xin
author list: Agent
  family name: Xu
  given name: Hongwei
author list: Agent
  family name: Yang
  given name: Jutian
author list: Agent
  family name: Guo
  given name: Penghui
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15757
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: © 2023 Wei et al.
attribution name: Wei et al.

Tailored modulation of S100A1 and RASSF8 expression by butanediamide augments healing of rotator cuff tears
type: item
type: AcademicArticle
description: Objectives This investigation sought to elucidate promising treatment modalities for rotator cuff tears (RCTs) by delving into the molecular machinations instigating the affliction. The focus was on differentially expressed genes (DEGs) linked to RCTs, and the exploration of their roles and operative pathways. Methods DEGs were discerned from GEO datasets, followed by the establishment of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Subsequently, the network’s core genes were determined employing a Venn diagram. Enrichment analysis facilitated the unveiling of the biological roles and signal transduction pathways of these pivotal genes, thus shedding light on molecular strategies for RCT-targeted treatment. The Discovery Studio 2019 software was employed to sift through FDA-sanctioned drugs targeting these essential proteins. Moreover, the efficaciousness of these FDA-endorsed drugs vis-à-vis RCTs was corroborated by the construction of an in vivo animal model of the injury and the in vitro cultivation of tendon-derived stem cells. Results Bioinformatics outcomes revealed a significant overexpression of S100A1 and RASSF8 in RCT patients. The FDA drug repository indicated that Butanediamide has a selective affinity for S100A1 and RASSF8. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro experimentation demonstrated that Butanediamide could suppress S100A1 expression and bolster TDSC proliferation, thereby facilitating RCT healing. Conclusions S100A1 and RASSF8 are pivotal genes implicated in RCTs, and their roles have been elucidated. The FDA-approved compound, Butanediamide, may represent a prospective therapeutic agent for RCTs by targeting S100A1 and RASSF8, respectively.
format: application/pdf
format: text/html
creator: Yuan Lin
creator: Ruipeng Guo
creator: Geng R
creator: Bin Xu
subject: Biochemistry
subject: Bioinformatics
subject: Cell Biology
subject: Molecular Biology
description: doi:10.7717/peerj.15791
publisher: PeerJ Inc.
rights: © 2023 Lin et al.
abstract: Objectives This investigation sought to elucidate promising treatment modalities for rotator cuff tears (RCTs) by delving into the molecular machinations instigating the affliction. The focus was on differentially expressed genes (DEGs) linked to RCTs, and the exploration of their roles and operative pathways. Methods DEGs were discerned from GEO datasets, followed by the establishment of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Subsequently, the network’s core genes were determined employing a Venn diagram. Enrichment analysis facilitated the unveiling of the biological roles and signal transduction pathways of these pivotal genes, thus shedding light on molecular strategies for RCT-targeted treatment. The Discovery Studio 2019 software was employed to sift through FDA-sanctioned drugs targeting these essential proteins. Moreover, the efficaciousness of these FDA-endorsed drugs vis-à-vis RCTs was corroborated by the construction of an in vivo animal model of the injury and the in vitro cultivation of tendon-derived stem cells. Results Bioinformatics outcomes revealed a significant overexpression of S100A1 and RASSF8 in RCT patients. The FDA drug repository indicated that Butanediamide has a selective affinity for S100A1 and RASSF8. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro experimentation demonstrated that Butanediamide could suppress S100A1 expression and bolster TDSC proliferation, thereby facilitating RCT healing. Conclusions S100A1 and RASSF8 are pivotal genes implicated in RCTs, and their roles have been elucidated. The FDA-approved compound, Butanediamide, may represent a prospective therapeutic agent for RCTs by targeting S100A1 and RASSF8, respectively.
bibliographic citation: Lin et al. (2023) Tailored modulation of S100A1 and RASSF8 expression by butanediamide augments healing of rotator cuff tears. PeerJ 11:e15791 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.15791
date submitted: 2022-12-15
date accepted: 2023-07-04
issued: 2023-08-14
is part of: PeerJ
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
author list: Agent
  family name: Lin
  given name: Yuan
author list: Agent
  family name: Guo
  given name: Ruipeng
author list: Agent
  family name: R
  given name: Geng
author list: Agent
  family name: Xu
  given name: Bin
doi: 10.7717/peerj.15791
volume: 11
issn: 2167-8359
publication name: PeerJ
publication date: 2023-08-14
copyright: ©2023 Lin et al.
attribution name: Lin et al.

PeerJ
type: Periodical
uri: PeerJ
issn: 2167-8359