Article
Environmental Sciences
Jie Yu, Xi Wu, Chang Liu, Steve Newmaster, Subramanyam Ragupathy, W. John Kress
Summary: Since 2008, DNA barcoding has been widely used in the identification and classification of medicinal plants, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medicinal materials. Through continuous optimization and integration with other technologies, DNA barcoding has become increasingly powerful in providing genetic information.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Rahul Jamdade, Kareem A. Mosa, Ali El-Keblawy, Khawla Al Shaer, Eman Al Harthi, Mariam Al Sallani, Mariam Al Jasmi, Sanjay Gairola, Hatem Shabana, Tamer Mahmoud
Summary: The accurate identification of herbal medicinal plants is crucial for safe usage and preventing adulteration. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the nuclear barcode ITS2 and plastid DNA barcodes rbcL and matK in identifying medicinally important plant species. The results suggested that ITS2 was more successful in distinguishing between species and detecting contamination and adulteration.
Article
Plant Sciences
Shuai Jiang, Fenglin Chen, Pai Qin, Hai Xie, Guo Peng, Yongliang Li, Xinhong Guo
Summary: The study focuses on the accurate identification of Theaceae plants using DNA barcoding technology. The researchers identified the optimal combination of gene sequences for DNA barcodes and conducted phylogenetic analysis and species-specific barcode design. The results improve species identification accuracy and have important implications for the identification and protection of Theaceae species and germplasm resources.
PHYSIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PLANTS
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Jie Wang, Jinquan Zhao, Weisen Yu, Shuangyu Wang, Shuhua Bu, Xuexiang Shi, Xiuyun Zhang
Summary: The study suggests that DNA barcoding is a rapid and accurate method for identifying and tracing toxic plants. RbcL is recommended as the best single marker for clinical identification of toxic plants, and the BLAST method is suggested for analysis.
FRONTIERS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Irene Bosmali, Georgios Lagiotis, Nadia Haider, Maslin Osathanunkul, Costas Biliaderis, Panagiotis Madesis
Summary: By analyzing DNA barcoding regions, this study identified 71 Vicia specimens of Eurasian descent. The trnL and ITS2 regions were effective in discriminating the analyzed species, while the rpoC1 region could not identify all selected species due to sequence conservation or missing sequences in GenBank. The combination of DNA barcoding regions is essential for accurate species discrimination within the Vicia genus.
Article
Horticulture
Ifeoma Nwafor, Christopher Nwafor, Idah Manduna
Summary: The paper explores the challenges faced by subsistent farmers in cultivating medicinal plants and recommends providing more research support and targeted incentives to promote their involvement. This can help improve smallholder livelihoods and protect indigenous biodiversity for future generations.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Huili Li, Wenjun Xiao, Tie Tong, Yongliang Li, Meng Zhang, Xiaoxia Lin, Xiaoxiao Zou, Qun Wu, Xinhong Guo
Summary: DNA barcoding is used as an effective tool for rapid and accurate identification of plant species, including Orchidaceae which is the second largest family of flowering plants globally. By analyzing chloroplast genes, this study provides a theoretical basis for species identification, germplasm conservation and innovative utilization of orchids.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Girme Aoudumbar Ramesh, Deepu Mathew, K. Joseph John, V Ravisankar
Summary: This study utilized DNA barcoding to identify seven species of Momordica and determine their relationships. Analysis of matK gene sequences resulted in distinct barcodes that could differentiate the species. The study also confirmed M. cymbalaria as a member of the Momordica genus.
HORTICULTURAL PLANT JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Ashwell R. Ndhlala, Vuyisile S. Thibane, Cecilia M. Masehla, Phatlane W. Mokwala
Summary: This study investigated the toxicity status of important medicinal plants used for skincare by indigenous people in the Eastern Cape and found that most of these plants are non-toxic and suitable for the formulation of skincare products.
Review
Plant Sciences
Olufunke O. O. Fajinmi, Olaoluwa O. O. Olarewaju, Johannes Van Staden
Summary: South Africa has abundant plant resources and unique vegetation types. Native South African medicinal plants have been utilized effectively to generate income in rural communities. The government's bio-conservation policies, coupled with the efforts of research scientists and tertiary institutions, have played a significant role in the development of propagation protocols for valuable medicinal plants.
Article
Parasitology
Jumari Snyman, Louwrens P. Snyman, Karien Labuschagne, Gert J. Venter, Marietjie Venter
Summary: The study found that Culicoides species feed on a variety of hosts, with host availability being an important factor in their host selection. This suggests that Culicoides are opportunistic feeders, potentially serving as vectors for transmitting viruses and pathogens.
Article
Plant Sciences
Emmanuel Ayodeji Ayeni, Yuzhou Gong, Hao Yuan, Yikao Hu, Xiaolin Bai, Xun Liao
Summary: This review provides an overview of major neurodegenerative diseases and the use of medicinal plants in managing these diseases in West Africa. It highlights the potential neuroprotective effects of various plant families and their chemical compounds, suggesting them as natural sources for anti-neurodegenerative drug discovery.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Idowu Jonas Sagbo, Ahmed A. Hussein
Summary: The use of medicinal plants for the management of diabetes has been increasing in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa due to their cultural acceptability, accessibility, affordability, efficacy, and safety claims. This study conducted a comprehensive review of antidiabetic medicinal plants used in the region and identified several promising species for further scientific investigation.
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Rendani Victress Ndou, Simeon Albert Materechera, Mulunda Mwanza, Wilfred Otang-Mbeng, Mooki Fabridge Ijane
Summary: This study aimed to document the knowledge of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants in four villages within the Mahikeng Local Municipality in order to preserve this valuable knowledge. The study found that ethnoveterinary medicine was widely used among livestock owners in the communities of the North West Province, with Senna italica (sebetebete) being the most commonly used species. Participants strongly recognized the cultural significance of plants in treating animal diseases, but expressed concern about the loss of this knowledge due to the influence of Western medicine and acculturation.
FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
V. L. Williams, E. M. Wojtasik, M. J. Byrne
Summary: South Africa's colonial past has influenced its environmental history, including the introduction of alien plants. Indian laborers from Tamil Nadu in the 1860s brought Zulu healing practices and plant knowledge to South Africa, leading to the establishment of the first traditional medicine shops in the country. Traditional medical knowledge, primarily Ayurvedic, was transplanted into South African healing traditions through the use of new plants and practices.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Manikyanahalli Chandrashekara Keerthi, Sachin Suresh Suroshe, Sagar Doddachowdappa, Kadanakuppe Thammayya Shivakumara, Hosapura Shekhararaju Mahesha, Virendra Singh Rana, Ankita Gupta, Ajith Murukesan, Ryan Casini, Hosam O. O. Elansary, Najam Akhtar Shakil
Summary: This study focused on managing the invasive pest Spodoptera frugiperda for organic maize production in India using bio-intensive tactics such as intercropping, natural enemies, botanical insecticides, and biopesticides. Eight different parasitoids were found attacking the different stages of S. frugiperda, with a parasitism rate ranging from 28.37% to 42.44%. The most effective botanical insecticides were citronella and annona extract, resulting in 100% mortality of FAW larvae.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Abdul Ghaffar, Mujahid Mehdi, Sadam Hussain, Azhar Ali Ayaz Pirzado, Sabab Ali Shah, Abed Alataway, Ahmed Z. Dewidar, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: This study investigates the use of plant-extracted fluorescent protein C-phycocyanin (CP) as a natural dye source for advanced apparel applications. CP is doped in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers via electrospinning, resulting in smooth and bead-free fibers. The CP-doped PVA nanofibers exhibit good color fastness and a blue color tone, making them suitable for flexible advanced apparel and biosensor applications.
MATERIALS RESEARCH EXPRESS
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Muhammad Ahsan, Mohammad Valipour, Fahim Nawaz, Muhammad Raheel, Hafiz Tassawar Abbas, Mateen Sajid, Abdul Manan, Shamsa Kanwal, Eman A. Mahmoud, Ryan Casini, Hosam O. Elansary, Emanuele Radicetti, Hira Zulfiqar
Summary: Drought is a major stress for agriculture worldwide, but the application of silicon (Si) can improve the resistance of Gerbera jamesonii plants to water deficiency. In this study, Si supplementation enhanced the morphological attributes, pigments, stress-related metabolites, and photosynthetic rate of gerbera plants under water-stressed conditions. It also increased the activities of enzymes related to stress tolerance and improved the overall performance of the plants. The findings suggest that foliar application of Si can be an effective method for enhancing the performance of gerbera flower plants in regions facing water deficiency.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Deqiang Ding, Xue Mi, Jingyu Wu, Zaib-un Nisa, Hosam O. Elansary, Xiaoxia Jin, Lijie Yu, Chao Chen
Summary: In this study, 56 PKS family genes were identified in wild soybean, and GsPKS24 was found to play a regulatory role in alkaline stress response. Overexpression of GsPKS24 enhanced pH stress tolerance in Arabidopsis and soybean hairy roots, but decreased pH tolerance in Arabidopsis atpks mutant. Furthermore, GsPKS24 overexpression reduced ABA sensitivity and upregulated expression of stress responsive and ABA signal-related genes.
FUNCTIONAL & INTEGRATIVE GENOMICS
(2023)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Zaib-un Nisa, Yudan Wang, Naila Ali, Chen Chen, Xu Zhang, Xiaoxia Jin, Lijie Yu, Legang Jing, Chao Chen, Hosam O. O. Elansary
Summary: The study identified and characterized the soybean GmMAX2a gene, which plays a crucial role in plant response to abiotic stresses. Transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing GmMAX2a showed enhanced tolerance to salinity, alkalinity, and drought. The findings suggest that GmMAX2a can be considered as a potential candidate gene for developing stress-tolerant plants through genetic engineering.
FUNCTIONAL & INTEGRATIVE GENOMICS
(2023)
Correction
Genetics & Heredity
Zaib-un Nisa, Yudan Wang, Naila Ali, Chen Chen, Xu Zhang, Xiaoxia Jin, Lijie Yu, Legang Jing, Chao Chen, Hosam O. Elansary
FUNCTIONAL & INTEGRATIVE GENOMICS
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Farukh Ameen, Sahar Mumtaz, Baber Ali, Iqbal Hussain, Aqsa Hafeez, Ambreen Gul, Mohsen Mohamed Elsharkawy, Taghred A. Hashim, Ghulam Yasin, Muhammad Nauman Khan, Iftikhar Ali, Sayed M. Eldin, Mohamed A. Rashwan, Hosam O. Elansary, Shafaqat Ali
Summary: This study investigated the potential effects of organic and Cu-contaminated soil on fibrous jute (Corchorus capsularis). The results showed that organic soil promoted seed germination, plant growth, and photosynthetic pigment content, while Cu-contaminated soil had negative effects on these factors. Cu toxicity also increased the activities of antioxidant compounds and damaged cell organelles. Overall, organic soil enhanced plant growth and biomass, while Cu toxicity adversely affected growth and physiological attributes in C. capsularis.
FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Horticulture
Zuhair Hasnain, Sara Zafar, Sheeraz Usman, Lihua Zhang, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: This study investigates the ameliorating effect of melatonin on turnip plants under water stress conditions. It is found that foliar application of melatonin significantly enhances the growth characteristics and drought tolerance of turnip plants.
SCIENTIA HORTICULTURAE
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Waqif Khan, Adnan Khan, Abd Ullah, Syed Inzimam Ul Haq, Nazim Hassan, Babar Iqbal, Naveed Ahmad, Eman A. Mahmoud, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: Wheat plays a significant role in providing food and nutrition, but rapid soil salinization poses a severe threat to its production. This study aimed to identify the genetic approaches concerning salt stress-responsive proteins and protein pathways in wheat roots. The results showed significant accumulation of Na+ and identified numerous proteins involved in salinity tolerance and antioxidant defense mechanisms.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Babar Iqbal, Qaiser Javed, Ismail Khan, Muhammad Tariq, Naveed Ahmad, Hosam O. Elansary, Arshad Jalal, Guanlin Li, Daolin Du
Summary: Cadmium toxicity in the soil severely threatens native ecosystems and crops, while microplastic accumulation in agricultural ecosystems also poses a problem. However, the effects of microplastic pollution and cadmium toxicity on crops are not yet fully understood.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Faiza Anum, Khajista Jabeen, Sumera Javad, Sumera Iqbal, Anis Ali Shah, Ryan Casini, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: Tomato, an important crop worldwide, is affected by grey mold disease caused by Botrytis cinerea. This study utilized silver nanoparticles synthesized from Amaranthus viridis L. leaf extract to mitigate the negative effects of B. cinerea on tomato growth. The experiment demonstrated that the application of silver nanoparticles improved physiological and biochemical parameters of tomato plants and significantly reduced disease occurrence.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Toqeer Abbas, Iftikhar Ahmad, Zafar Iqbal Khan, Anis Ali Shah, Ryan Casini, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: Faisalabad, a major industrial area in Pakistan, is causing significant pollution to the Chenab River and nearby vegetation due to the discharge of industrial wastewater. The study found high levels of heavy metal pollution in both the industrial effluents and the river, posing a threat to riparian vegetation and wildlife. However, despite the pollution, four plant species were able to withstand the harsh environment and were found at all sites.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Sana Ullah, Tanveer Ul Haq, Muhammad Asif Shehzad, Khawaja Shafique Ahmad, Muhammad Imran, Amar Matloob, Hafiz Shahzad Ahmad, Muhammad Arif, Ihab Mohamed Moussa, Hosam O. Elansary, Jianyong Wang
Summary: Low nutrient availability in sandy soils can negatively affect crop productivity. This study found that the use of cotton-sticks biochar, sugarcane press-mud, and vegetable compost can effectively improve soil chemical properties and increase chickpea yield.
COGENT FOOD & AGRICULTURE
(2023)
Article
Environmental Studies
Abdul Basir Mahmoodzada, Divyesh Varade, Sawahiko Shimada, Hiromu Okazawa, Shafiqullah Aryan, Gulbuddin Gulab, Abd El-Zaher M. A. Mustafa, Humaira Rizwana, Yogesh K. Ahlawat, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: In this study, the riverbank erosion of the Amu River in Kaldar District, Balkh Province of Afghanistan from 2004 to 2020 was quantified using modelled river discharge. A framework combining multi-source information was proposed to model the erosion area based on river discharge, river width, and erosion area. The results showed that the average annual riverbank erosion area in Kaldar District was about 5.4 km2, with a total of 86.3 km2 during 2004-2020 due to flood events. Higher land loss events occurred in certain years, with 10 km2 bank erosion in 2008-2009 and 2015-2016, and a peak erosion of 19 km2 in 2011-2012. A linear relationship between the erosion area and discharge intensity and specific stream power was observed.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jameel Ahmed Bhutto, Zhonglin He, Jawayria Najeeb, Sumaira Naeem, Eman A. Mahmoud, Hosam O. Elansary
Summary: Designing novel drugs using data-driven and virtual screening approaches, such as machine learning and data mining, is a popular research topic in the pharmaceutical industry. In this study, ML models were trained using data collected from academic research articles, and molecular descriptors were utilized. The best ML models were selected and optimized to identify potential compounds for aromatase inhibitors. These models accurately predicted the inhibition values of compounds in a database, and new compounds were designed based on the predictions. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential significance of data-driven and virtual screening approaches in pharmaceutical research.