Exploring the dietary and therapeutic potential of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) sprouts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This research substantiates the traditional use of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. for liver health, with scientific evidence of the non-toxic and lipid-lowering properties of licorice sprout extracts. The sprouts' rich mineral and amino acid content, along with their strong antioxidant activity, reinforce their value in traditional medicine. These findings bridge ancient herbal practices with modern science, highlighting licorice's potential in contemporary therapeutic applications.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed to investigate the dietary and medicinal potential of G. uralensis sprouts by assessing their safety, nutritional content, and antioxidant properties using both plant and animal models. Specifically, the study sought to determine the effects of different sizes of licorice sprouts on lipid metabolism in human liver cancer cells and their overall impact on rat health indicators.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study examined the effects of aqueous and organic extracts from G. uralensis sprouts of varying lengths on the cytotoxicity, lipid metabolism, and antioxidant activity in HepG2 cells, alongside in vivo impacts on Sprague-Dawley rats, using MTT, ICP, and HPLC. It aimed to assess the potential health benefits of licorice sprouts by analyzing their protective effects against oxidative stress and their nutritional content.

RESULTS

Licorice sprout extracts from G. uralensis demonstrated no cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells, significantly reduced lipid levels, and enhanced antioxidant activities, with the longest sprouts (7 cm) showing higher mineral, sugar, and arginine content as well as increased glycyrrhizin and liquiritigenin. In vivo studies with Sprague-Dawley rats revealed weight gain and improved antioxidant enzyme activities in blood plasma and liver tissues after consuming the extracts, highlighting the sprouts' dietary and therapeutic potential.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to demonstrate that G. uralensis sprouts, particularly those 7 cm in length, have no cytotoxic effects, reduce lipids, and have high mineral and antioxidant contents, offering promising dietary and therapeutic benefits.

Influence of N-Acetylglucosamine and Melatonin Interaction in Modeling the Photosynthetic Component and Metabolomics of Cucumber under Salinity Stress

The application of N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) and melatonin (Mel) in agriculture could be a promising avenue for improving crop resilience and productivity, especially under challenging environmental conditions. In the current study, we treated the cucumber plant with GlcNAc and Mel solely and combinedly under salt stress (150 mM) then studied photosynthetic attributes using the transient OJIP fluorescence method. The results showed that the combination of GlcNAc × Mel significantly improved the plant morphological attributes, such as root and shoot biomass, and also improved chlorophyll and photosynthetic components. The mineral elements such as K, Mg, Ca, and P were significantly elevated, whereas a lower influx of Na was observed in GlcNAc × Mel treated cucumber shoots. A significant reduction in abscisic acid was observed, which was validated by the reduction in proline content and the increase in stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (E), and substomatal CO2 concentration (Ci). Furthermore, the activities of antioxidants such as polyphenol and flavonoid were considerably improved, resulting in a decrease in SOD and CAT with GlcNAc × Mel treatment. In addition, GlcNAc × Mel treatment dropped levels of the toxic radical Malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated amino acids in cucumber shoots. These findings suggest that the combination of GlcNAc × Mel could be an effective elicitor for modeling plant metabolism to confer stress tolerance in crops.

The PGPR Bacillus aryabhattai promotes soybean growth via nutrient and chlorophyll maintenance and the production of butanoic acid

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) colonize plant roots, establish a mutualistic relationship with the plants and help them grow better. This study reports novel findings on the plant growth-promoting effects of the PGPR Bacillus aryabhattai. Soil was collected from a soybean field, PGPR were isolated, identified, and characterized for their ability to promote plant growth and development. The bacterium was isolated from the soybean rhizosphere and identified as B. aryabhattai strain SRB02 via 16s rRNA sequencing. As shown by SEM, the bacterium successfully colonized rice and soybean roots within 2 days and significantly promoted the growth of the GA-deficient rice cultivar Waito-C within 10 days, as well as the growth of soybean plants with at least six times longer shoots, roots, higher chlorophyll content, fresh, and dry weight after 10 days of inoculation. ICP analysis showed up to a 100% increase in the quantity of 18 different amino acids in the SRB02-treated soybean plants. Furthermore, the 2-DE gel assay indicated the presence of several differentially expressed proteins in soybean leaves after 24 hrs of SRB02 application. MALDI-TOF-MS identified β-conglycinin and glycinin along with several other proteins that were traced back to their respective genes. Analysis of bacterial culture filtrates via GCMS recorded significantly higher quantities of butanoic acid which was approximately 42% of all the metabolites found in the filtrates. The application of 100 ppm butanoic acid had significantly positive effects on plant growth via chlorophyll maintenance. These results establish the suitability of B. aryabhattai as a promising PGPR for field application in various crops.

Enhanced use of chemical fertilizers and mitigation of heavy metal toxicity using biochar and the soil fungus Bipolaris maydis AF7 in rice: Genomic and metabolomic perspectives

Chemical fertilizers are the primary source of crop nutrition; however, their increasing rate of application has created environmental hazards, such as heavy metal toxicity and eutrophication. The synchronized use of chemical fertilizers and eco-friendly biological tools, such as microorganisms and biochar, may provide an efficient foundation to promote sustainable agriculture. Therefore, the current study aimed to optimize the nutrient uptake using an inorganic fertilizer, sulfate of potash (SOP) from the plant growth-promoting fungus Bipolaris maydis AF7, and biochar under heavy metal toxicity conditions in rice. Bioassay analysis showed that AF7 has high resistance to heavy metals and a tendency to produce gibberellin, colonize the fertilizer, and increase the intake of free amino acids. In the plant experiment, the co-application of AF7 +Biochar+MNF+SOP significantly lowered the heavy metal toxicity, enhanced the nutrient uptake in the rice shoots, and improved the morphological attributes (total biomass). Moreover, the co-application augmented the glucose and sucrose levels, whereas it significantly lowered the endogenous phytohormone levels (salicylic acid and jasmonic acid) in the rice shoots. The increase in nutrient content aligns with the higher expression of the OsLSi6, PHT1, and OsHKT1 genes. The plant growth traits and heavy metal tolerance of AF7 were validated by whole-genome sequencing that showed the presence of the heavy metal tolerance and detoxification protein, siderophore iron transporter, Gibberellin cluster GA4 desaturase, and DES_1 genes, as well as others that regulate glucose, antioxidants, and amino acids. Because the AF7 +biochar+inorganic fertilizer works synergistically, nutrient availability to the crops could be improved, and heavy metal toxicity and environmental hazards could be minimized.

Gibberellin-Producing Bacteria Isolated from Coastal Soil Enhance Seed Germination of Mallow and Broccoli Plants under Saline Conditions

Salinity hinders plant growth, posing a substantial challenge to sustainable agricultural yield maintenance. The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) offers an emerging strategy to mitigate the detrimental effects of high salinity levels. This study aimed to isolate and identify gibberellin-producing bacteria and their impact on the seed germination of Malva verticillata (mallow) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli) under salt stress. In this study, seven bacterial isolates (KW01, KW02, KW03, KW04, KW05, KW06, and KW07) were used to assess their capacity for producing various growth-promoting traits and their tolerance to varying amounts of salinity (100 mM and 150 Mm NaCl). The findings revealed that KW05 and KW07 isolates outperformed other isolates in synthesizing indole-3-acetic acid, siderophores, and exopolysaccharides and in solubilizing phosphates. These isolates also enhanced phosphatase activity and antioxidant levels, including superoxide dismutase and catalase. Both KW05 and KW07 isolate highlight the growth-promoting effects of gibberellin by enhancing of growth parameters of Waito-C rice. Further, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry validation confirmed the ability of KW05 and KW07 to produce gibberellins (GAs), including GA1, GA3, GA4, and GA7. Seed germination metrics were enhanced due to the inoculation of KW05 and KW07. Moreover, inoculation with KW05 increased the fresh weight (FW) (7.82%) and total length (38.61%) of mallow under salt stress. Inoculation with KW07 increased the FW (32.04%) and shoot length of mallow under salt stress. A single inoculation of these two isolates increased broccoli plants' FW and shoot length under salt stress. Gibberellin-producing bacteria helps in plant growth promotion by improving salt tolerance by stimulating root elongation and facilitating enhanced absorption of water and nutrient uptake in salty environments. Based on these findings, they can play a role in boosting agricultural yield in salt-affected areas, which would help to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in coastal regions.

Dynamics of Humic Acid, Silicon, and Biochar under Heavy Metal, Drought, and Salinity with Special Reference to Phytohormones, Antioxidants, and Melatonin Synthesis in Rice

This study aimed to develop a biostimulant formulation using humic acid (HA), silicon, and biochar alone or in combination to alleviate the lethality induced by combined heavy metals (HM-C; As, Cd, and Pb), drought stress (DS; 30-40% soil moisture), and salt stress (SS; 150 mM NaCl) in rice. The results showed that HA, Si, and biochar application alone or in combination improved plant growth under normal, DS, and SS conditions significantly. However, HA increased the lethality of rice by increasing the As, Cd, and Pb uptake significantly, thereby elevating lipid peroxidation. Co-application reduced abscisic acid, elevated salicylic acid, and optimized the Ca2+ and Si uptake. This subsequently elevated the K+/Na+ influx and efflux by regulating the metal ion regulators (Si: Lsi1 and Lsi2; K+/Na+: OsNHX1) and increased the expressions of the stress-response genes OsMTP1 and OsNramp in the rice shoots. Melatonin synthesis was significantly elevated by HM-C (130%), which was reduced by 50% with the HA + Si + biochar treatment. However, in the SS- and DS-induced crops, the melatonin content showed only minor differences. These findings suggest that the biostimulant formulation could be used to mitigate SS and DS, and precautions should be taken when using HA for heavy metal detoxification.

Phytohormonal modulation of the drought stress in soybean: outlook, research progress, and cross-talk

Phytohormones play vital roles in stress modulation and enhancing the growth of plants. They interact with one another to produce programmed signaling responses by regulating gene expression. Environmental stress, including drought stress, hampers food and energy security. Drought is abiotic stress that negatively affects the productivity of the crops. Abscisic acid (ABA) acts as a prime controller during an acute transient response that leads to stomatal closure. Under long-term stress conditions, ABA interacts with other hormones, such as jasmonic acid (JA), gibberellins (GAs), salicylic acid (SA), and brassinosteroids (BRs), to promote stomatal closure by regulating genetic expression. Regarding antagonistic approaches, cytokinins (CK) and auxins (IAA) regulate stomatal opening. Exogenous application of phytohormone enhances drought stress tolerance in soybean. Thus, phytohormone-producing microbes have received considerable attention from researchers owing to their ability to enhance drought-stress tolerance and regulate biological processes in plants. The present study was conducted to summarize the role of phytohormones (exogenous and endogenous) and their corresponding microbes in drought stress tolerance in model plant soybean. A total of n=137 relevant studies were collected and reviewed using different research databases.

Hormones and the antioxidant transduction pathway and gene expression, mediated by Serratia marcescens DB1, lessen the lethality of heavy metals (As, Ni, and Cr) in Oryza sativa L

Microorganisms have recently gained recognition as efficient biological tool for reducing heavy metal toxicity in crops. In this experiment, we isolated a potent heavy metal (As, Ni, and Cr) resistant rhizobacterium Serratia marcescens DB1 and detected its plant growth promoting traits such as phosphate solubilization, gibberellin synthesis, organic acid production and amino acid regulation. Based on these findings, DB1 was further investigated for application in a rice var. Hwayeongbyeo subjected to 1 mM As, 4 mM Ni, and 4 mM Cr stress. The rice plants treated with Cr and Ni appeared healthy but were lethal, indicating unfitness for consumption due to toxic metal deposition, whereas the plants treated with > 1 mM As instantaneously died. Our results showed that DB1 inoculation significantly decreased metal accumulation in the rice shoots. Particularly, Cr uptake dropped by 16.55% and 22.12% in (Cr + DB1) and (Cr + As + Ni + DB1), respectively, As dropped by 48.90% and 35.82% in (As + DB1) and (Cr + As + Ni + DB1), respectively, and Ni dropped by 7.95% and 19.56% in (Ni + DB1) and (Cr + As + Ni + DB1), respectively. These findings were further validated by gene expression analysis results, which showed that DB1 inoculation significantly decreased the expression of OsPCS1 (a phytochelatin synthase gene), OsMTP1 (a metal transporting gene), and OsMTP5 (a gene for the expulsion of excess metal). Moreover, DB1 inoculation considerably enhanced the morphological growth of rice through modulation of endogenous phytohormones (abscisic acid, salicylic acid, and jasmonic acid) and uptake of essential elements such as K and P. These findings indicate that DB1 is an effective biofertilizer that can mitigate heavy metal toxicity in rice crops.

Recent progress on the microbial mitigation of heavy metal stress in soybean: overview and implications

Plants are adapted to defend themselves through programming, reprogramming, and stress tolerance against numerous environmental stresses, including heavy metal toxicity. Heavy metal stress is a kind of abiotic stress that continuously reduces various crops' productivity, including soybeans. Beneficial microbes play an essential role in improving plant productivity as well as mitigating abiotic stress. The simultaneous effect of abiotic stress from heavy metals on soybeans is rarely explored. Moreover, reducing metal contamination in soybean seeds through a sustainable approach is extremely needed. The present article describes the initiation of heavy metal tolerance mediated by plant inoculation with endophytes and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, the identification of plant transduction pathways via sensing annotation, and contemporary changes from molecular to genomics. The results suggest that the inoculation of beneficial microbes plays a significant role in rescuing soybeans under heavy metal stress. They create a dynamic, complex interaction with plants via a cascade called plant-microbial interaction. It enhances stress metal tolerance via the production of phytohormones, gene expression, and secondary metabolites. Overall, microbial inoculation is essential in mediating plant protection responses to heavy metal stress produced by a fluctuating climate.

Synergistic Effect of Melatonin and Lysinibacillus fusiformis L. (PLT16) to Mitigate Drought Stress via Regulation of Hormonal, Antioxidants System, and Physio-Molecular Responses in Soybean Plants

Drought is one of the most detrimental factors that causes significant effects on crop development and yield. However, the negative effects of drought stress may be alleviated with the aid of exogenous melatonin (MET) and the use of plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). The present investigation aimed to validate the effects of co-inoculation of MET and Lysinibacillus fusiformis on hormonal, antioxidant, and physio-molecular regulation in soybean plants to reduce the effects of drought stress. Therefore, ten randomly selected isolates were subjected to various plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) traits and a polyethylene-glycol (PEG)-resistance test. Among these, PLT16 tested positive for the production of exopolysaccharide (EPS), siderophore, and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), along with higher PEG tolerance, in vitro IAA, and organic-acid production. Therefore, PLT16 was further used in combination with MET to visualize the role in drought-stress mitigation in soybean plant. Furthermore, drought stress significantly damages photosynthesis, enhances ROS production, and reduces water stats, hormonal signaling and antioxidant enzymes, and plant growth and development. However, the co-application of MET and PLT16 enhanced plant growth and development and improved photosynthesis pigments (chlorophyll a and b and carotenoids) under both normal conditions and drought stress. This may be because hydrogen-peroxide (H2O2), superoxide-anion (O2-), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were reduced and antioxidant activities were enhanced to maintain redox homeostasis and reduce the abscisic-acid (ABA) level and its biosynthesis gene NCED3 while improving the synthesis of jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) to mitigate drought stress and balance the stomata activity to maintain the relative water states. This may be possible due to a significant increase in endo-melatonin content, regulation of organic acids, and enhancement of nutrient uptake (calcium, potassium, and magnesium) by co-inoculated PLT16 and MET under normal conditions and drought stress. In addition, co-inoculated PLT16 and MET modulated the relative expression of DREB2 and TFs bZIP while enhancing the expression level of ERD1 under drought stress. In conclusion, the current study found that the combined application of melatonin and Lysinibacillus fusiformis inoculation increased plant growth and could be used to regulate plant function during drought stress as an eco-friendly and low-cost approach.

State of pediatric liver transplantation in the United States and achieving zero wait list mortality with ideal outcomes: A statement from the Starzl Network for Excellence in Pediatric Transplant Surgeon's Working Group

BACKGROUND

Liver transplant is a life-saving therapy that can restore quality life for several pediatric liver diseases. However, it is not available to all children who need one. Expertise in medical and surgical management is heterogeneous, and allocation policies are not optimally serving children. Technical variant grafts from both living and deceased donors are underutilized.

METHODS

Several national efforts in pediatric liver transplant to improve access to and outcomes from liver transplant for children have been instituted and include adjustments to allocation policies, UNOS-sponsored collaborative improvement projects, and the emergence of national learning networks to study ongoing challenges in the field the Surgical Working group of the Starzl Network for Excellence in Pediatric Transplantation (SNEPT) discusses key issues and proposes potential solutions to eliminate the persistent wait list mortality that pediatric patients face.

RESULTS

A discussion of the factors impacting pediatric patients' access to liver transplant is undertaken, along with a proposal of several measures to ensure equitable access to life-saving liver transplant.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric liver transplant wait list mortality can and should be eliminated. Several measures, including collaborative efforts among centers, could be leveraged to acheive this goal.

Exogenous SA Applications Alleviate Salinity Stress via Physiological and Biochemical changes in St John's Wort Plants

The plant St. John's wort contains high levels of melatonin, an important biochemical that has both beneficial and adverse effects on stress. Therefore, a method for increasing melatonin levels in plants without adversely affecting their growth is economically important. In this study, we investigated the regulation of melatonin levels in St. John's wort by exposing samples to salinity stress (150 mM) and salicylic acid (0.25 mM) to augment stress tolerance. The results indicated that salinity stress significantly reduced the plant chlorophyll content and damaged the photosystem, plant growth and development. Additionally, these were reconfirmed with biochemical indicators; the levels of abscisic acid (ABA) and proline were increased and the activities of antioxidants were reduced. However, a significant increase was found in melatonin content under salinity stress through upregulation in the relative expression of tryptophan decarboxylase (TDC), tryptamine 5-hydroxylase (T5H), serotonin N-acetyltransferase (SNAT), and N-acetylserotonin methyltransferase (ASMT). The salicylic acid (SA) treatment considerably improved their photosynthetic activity, the maximum photochemical quantum yield (133%), the potential activity of PSⅡ (294%), and the performance index of electron flux to the final PS I electron acceptors (2.4%). On the other hand, SA application reduced ABA levels (32%); enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) (15.4%) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (120%); and increased polyphenol (6.4%) and flavonoid (75.4%) levels in salinity-stressed St. John's wort plants. Similarly, SA application under NaCl stress significantly modulated the melatonin content in terms of ion balance; the level of melatonin was reduced after SA application on salt-treated seedlings but noticeably higher than on only SA-treated and non-treated seedlings. Moreover, the proline content was reduced considerably and growth parameters, such as plant biomass, shoot length, and chlorophyll content, were enhanced following treatment of salinity-stressed St. John's wort plants with salicylic acid. These findings demonstrate the beneficial impact of salt stress in terms of a cost-effective approach to extract melatonin in larger quantities from St. John's wort. They also suggest the efficiency of salicylic acid in alleviating stress tolerance and promoting growth of St. John's wort plants.

Seed Bio-priming of wheat with a novel bacterial strain to modulate drought stress in Daegu, South Korea

Wheat is one of the major cereal crop grown food worldwide and, therefore, plays has a key role in alleviating the global hunger crisis. The effects of drought stress can reduces crop yields by up to 50% globally. The use of drought-tolerant bacteria for biopriming can improve crop yields by countering the negative effects of drought stress on crop plants. Seed biopriming can reinforce the cellular defense responses to stresses via the stress memory mechanism, that its activates the antioxidant system and induces phytohormone production. In the present study, bacterial strains were isolated from rhizospheric soil taken from around the Artemisia plant at Pohang Beach, located near Daegu, in the South Korea Republic of Korea. Seventy-three isolates were screened for their growth-promoting attributes and biochemical characteristics. Among them, the bacterial strain SH-8 was selected preferred based on its plant growth-promoting bacterial traits, which are as follows: abscisic acid (ABA) concentration = 1.08 ± 0.05 ng/mL, phosphate-solubilizing index = 4.14 ± 0.30, and sucrose production = 0.61 ± 0.13 mg/mL. The novel strain SH-8 demonstrated high tolerance oxidative stress. The antioxidant analysis also showed that SH-8 contained significantly higher levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbic peroxidase (APX). The present study also quantified and determined the effects of biopriming wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds with the novel strain SH-8. SH-8 was highly effective in enhancing the drought tolerance of bioprimed seeds; their drought tolerance and germination potential (GP) were increased by up to 20% and 60%, respectively, compared with those in the control group. The lowest level of impact caused by drought stress and the highest germination potential, seed vigor index (SVI), and germination energy (GE) (90%, 2160, and 80%, respectively), were recorded for seeds bioprimed with with SH-8. These results show that SH-8 enhances drought stress tolerance by up to 20%. Our study suggests that the novel rhizospheric bacterium SH-8 (gene accession number OM535901) is a valuable biostimulant that improves drought stress tolerance in wheat plants and has the potential to be used as a biofertilizer under drought conditions.

Melatonin and nitric oxide: Dual players inhibiting hazardous metal toxicity in soybean plants via molecular and antioxidant signaling cascades

Melatonin (MT), a ubiquitous signaling molecule, is known to improve plant growth. Its regulatory function alongside nitric oxide (NO) is known to induce heavy metal (Cd and Pb) stress tolerance, although the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we observed that the combined application of MT and NO remarkably enhanced plant biomass by reducing oxidative stress. Both MT and NO minimized metal toxicity by significantly lowering the levels of endogenous abscisic acid and jasmonic acid via downregulating NCED3 and upregulating catabolic genes (CYP707A1 and CYP707A2). MT/NO-induced mitigation of Cd and Pb stress was associated with increased endo-melatonin and variable endo-S-nitrosothiol levels caused by enhanced expression of gmNR and gmGSNOR mRNAs. Remarkably, the combined application of MT/NO reduced soil Cd and Pb mobilization by increasing the uptake of Ca²⁺ and K⁺ and increasing the exudation of organic acids into the rhizosphere. These results correlated with the upregulation of MTF-1 and WARKY27 during metal translocation. MT/NO regulates the MAPK and CDPK cascades to promote plant cell survival and Ca²⁺ signaling, thereby imparting resistance to heavy metal toxicity. In conclusion, MT/NO modulates the stress-resistance machinery to mitigate Cd and Pb toxicity by regulating the activation of antioxidant and molecular transcription factors.

Evaluating the adhesive potential of the newly isolated bacterial strains in research exploitation of plant microbial interaction

Bacterial adhesion potential constitutes the transition of bacteria from the planktonic to the static phase by promoting biofilm formation, which plays a significant role in plant-microbial interaction in the agriculture industry. In present study, the adhesion potential of five soil-borne bacterial strains belonging to different genera was studied. All bacterial strains were capable of forming colonies and biofilms of different levels of firmness on polystyrene. Significant variation was observed in hydrophobicity and motility assays. Among the five bacterial strains (SH-6, SH-8, SH-9, SH-10, and SH-19), SH-19 had a strong hydrophobic force, while SH-10 showed the most hydrophilic property. SH-6 showed great variability in motility; SH-8 had a swimming diffusion diameter of 70 mm, which was three times higher than that of SH-19. In the motility assay, SH-9 and SH-10 showed diffusion diameters of approximately 22 mm and 55 mm, respectively. Furthermore, among the five strains, four are predominately electron donors and one is electron acceptors. Overall, positive correlation was observed among Lewis acid base properties, hydrophobicity, and biofilm forming ability. However, no correlation of motility with bacterial adhesion could be found in present experimental work. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed the adhesion potential and biofilm ability within extra polymeric substances. Research on the role of adhesion in biofilm formation of bacteria isolated from plants is potentially conducive for developing strategies such as plant-microbial interaction to mitigate the abiotic stress.

Prediction of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a well-established therapy for symptomatic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, but the response is different for individuals. Although many modalities have been conducted to predict CRT response, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) to predict CRT response has still insufficient usefulness.

Purpose

We determine whether the parameters including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) identified in CMR could act as predictors of CRT response.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated 124 patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy who underwent CMR before CRT implantation between Jan 2010 and July 2021 in a single center. CRT response was defined as a decrease in left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) >15% on echocardiography after at least 3 months after CRT implantation.

Results

Among the study population (mean age 65.7±11.2 years, mean EF 25±6.5%, 50% of female), 85 (69%) patients were defined as CRT responder. The CRT responders had more left bundle branch block (LBBB) compared with non-responders [79 (92.9%) vs. 23 (59.0%), p<0.001], but there was a no difference of QRS duration (158.7 vs 165.0ms, p=0.054) between two groups. CMR analysis showed that there were no significant differences in the left ventricular (LV) chamber volume and LV ejection fraction between CRT-responder and non-responder. However, the right ventricular (RV) chamber volume was smaller (RV end-diastolic volume index, 86.3 vs 103.5 ml/m2, p=0.039; RV end-systolic volume index, 49.3 vs 68.5 ml/m2, p=0.013) and the RV ejection fraction (RVEF) was higher (46.9 vs 37.6%, p=0.002) in CRT-responders compared with non-responders. The LGE on CMR was more shown in non-responders than in CRT-responders [33 (84.6%) vs 45 (52.9%), p<0.001]. In CMR parameters, RV dysfunction (RVEF <45%) [Odds ratio (OR), 0.21 (0.05–0.93), p=0.045] and LGE [OR, 0.21 (0.05–0.58), p=0.01] were significantly associated with poor CRT response.

Conclusions

The presence of LGE and RV dysfunction on CMR were associated with poor CRT response in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Further investigation with CMR for pre-CRT patients is needed to support these results.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Genetic analysis of Korean non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy using next generation sequencing

Background

Non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) is a genetic disorder that causes heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmia. However, there has been no study about the up-to-date genetic analysis for NIDCM in Korean. Therefore, we performed the genetic analysis of Korean NIDCM patients (pts) using next generation sequencing (NGS).

Methods

We analyzed clinical and echocardiographic data of 203 NIDCM in a single center from July 2017 to May 2020. All pts underwent NGS analysis with customized panel including 369 genes. Genetic variants were classified as pathogenic, likely pathogenic mutations or variants of uncertain significance regarding American College of Medical Genetics guideline.

Results

A total of 203 NIDCM pts (57±15 years old, 32.0% male, LVEF 28%) had NGS analysis. Thirty-seven (18.2%) pts had pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations. The most prevalent mutated genes were TTN (n=16, 43.2%). TNNT2 (n=6, 16.2%), MYBPC3 (n=6, 16.2%) and MYH7 (n=3, 8.1%) mutated genes were common in the following order. The patients with positive panel mutation had no significant difference in initial LVEF (27% vs. 28%, p=0.216) and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (37.8% vs. 44.6%, p=0.454) compared with patients with negative panel mutation. During the median follow-up period of 40 months, there was no significant difference in composite outcome (all-cause death, heart transplantation, LVAD, heart failure re-admission, fatal arrhythmia) (35.3% vs. 32.2%, p=0.729) or presence of improved EF (≥10 points increase from baseline LVEF, and a second measurement of LVEF >40%) (41.2% vs. 50.0%, p=0.354) between the two groups.

Conclusion

This is the first study of NGS analysis in Korean NIDCM pts. We could find disease-related pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in 18.2% NIDCM patients. Further prospective, large study should be warranted to elucidate the effect of genetic mutation in clinical manifestation and prognosis of NIDCM in Korean population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

In-hospital glycemic variability and all-cause mortality in patients hospitalized with acute heart failure: analysis of the KorAHF registry

Introduction

Glycemic variability (GV) is known to be a poor prognostic marker in various diseases including cardiovascular disease.

Purpose

We investigated the association of GV with all-cause mortality in patients with acute heart failure (HF).

Methods

The Korean Acute Heart Failure registry enrolled patients hospitalized for acute HF from 2011 to 2014. Among survivors of the index hospitalization, we analyzed those who had ≥3 blood glucose measurements before discharge. Patients were divided into two groups based on their coefficient of variation (%CV) as an indicator of GV. We investigated all-cause mortality at 6 month and 1 year after discharge.

Results

The study analyzed 2,617 patients (median age 72 years, 53% male). During the median follow-up period of 11 months, 583 (22%) patients died. Compared to alive patients, patients who died had a significantly higher diabetes prevalence (46% vs. 41%, P=0.035) and higher %CV (31.0% vs. 27.5%, P<0.001). Kaplan-Meier curve analysis revealed that a high GV (%CV >21%) was associated with lower cumulative survival to all-cause death compared with a low GV (%CV ≤21%) (log-rank P<0.001). Multivariate Cox proportional analysis showed that a high GV was associated with an increased risk of 6-month mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.58–2.59, P<0.001) and one-year mortality (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.29–1.91, P<0.001). The risk of high GV for one-year mortality was significant in non-diabetic patients (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1.55–2.53, P<0.001), but not in diabetic patients (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.91–1.69, P=0.176; P-for-interaction=0.030).

Conclusion

A high GV (%CV >21%) before discharge was associated with all-cause mortality within 1 year, especially in non-diabetic acute HF patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

The association between frailty and physical performance in elderly patients with heart failure

Background

Frailty is known to be an important prognostic indicator in heart failure (HF). The Korean version of the frail scale for Koreans (K-FRAIL) has been developed and verified. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between the K-FRAIL scale and physical performance, including muscular fitness and aerobic capacity in patients with HF.

Methods

This study included 143 HF patients aged over 65 years from a single tertiary hospital. In these subjects, muscular fitness was assessed using the handgrip test and knee extensor strength measurement, and aerobic capacity was assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise test and 6-minute walk test. Frailty status was measured using the K-FRAIL questionnaire and was classified as robust (K-FRAIL scale: 0), prefrail (1–2), and frail (3–5).

Results

Mean age of participants with robust (N=37), prefrail (N=75), and frail (N=31) were 72.5, 73.5, and 76.3 years, respectively. There was no difference in sex and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) among groups, but the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly lower as frailty status increased (75.6±17.2 vs. 70.0±20.5 vs. 56.1±23.7 mL/min/1.73 m2; P<0.001). Hand-grip strength and knee extensor muscle strength did not differ among groups. However, peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2; 22.8±5.0 vs. 19.3±4.6 vs. 16.9±4.7 mL/kg/min, P<0.001) and 6-min walk distance (458.4±68.2 vs. 404.5±92.3 vs. 311.2±120.5 m; p<0.001) significantly decreased according to frailty severity. In multivariate regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, haemoglobin, eGFR and LVEF, peak VO2 (β=−0.311; P=0.002) and 6-min walk distance (β=−0.384; P<0.001) showed a significant inverse association with the K-FRAIL scale. With the cut-off value from receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, peak VO2 (hazard ratio, 5.08; p=0.023) and 6MWT (hazard ratio, 3.99; p=0.020) were independent predictor of frailty according to K-FRAIL scale.

Conclusion

In elderly HF patients, physical performance differs according to frailty status, peak VO2 and 6-min walk distance correlates with the K-FRAIL scale better than muscular fitness.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Impact of metformin on the all-cause mortality in diabetic patients hospitalized with acute heart failure

Introduction

Although the hypothesis that metformin is beneficial for diabetic patients with heart failure (HF) has been steadily raised, there have been no solid data on the efficacy of metformin in acute HF patients.

Purpose

We investigated the impact of metformin on all-cause mortality in hospitalized acute HF patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The Korean Acute Heart Failure registry enrolled patients hospitalized for acute HF from 2011 to 2014. Among this cohort, we analyzed patients with diabetes. We investigated all-cause mortality at 1 year after discharge. Propensity score matching (1:1 matching) and Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess difference in all-cause mortality.

Results

The study analyzed 1,976 diabetic patients (median age 72 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 34%, 54.5% male). Among them, 712 (36%) patients were on metformin. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 1,424 patients (712 metformin users vs. 712 non-users) were analyzed. During the median follow-up period of 11 months, 146 (21%) metformin non-users died and 108 (15%) metformin users died. Kaplan-Meier curves showed a higher all-cause mortality rate in non-users than in metformin users (Log-rank P=0.0025). After adjustment for clinically relevant variables, metformin was associated with lower risk for all-cause mortality (HR 0.713, 95% CI 0.551–0.922, P=0.01). In subgroup analyses, metformin use was significantly associated with a lower all-cause mortality in higher eGFR group (≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2, HR 0.531, 95% CI 0.357–0.790, P=0.002), but not in lower eGFR group (<60 ml/min/1.73 m2, HR 0.905, 95% CI 0.643–1.275, P=0.569, P-for-interaction=0.033). There was no significant interaction of metformin use for all-cause mortality between the subgroups with LVEF ≤40% and LVEF >40% (P-for-interaction=0.906).

Conclusion

Metformin use was associated with a lower risk for 1-year all-cause mortality in diabetic acute HF patients, especially in high eGFR group.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

A Review on the Role of Endophytes and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria in Mitigating Heat Stress in Plants

Among abiotic stresses, heat stress is described as one of the major limiting factors of crop growth worldwide, as high temperatures elicit a series of physiological, molecular, and biochemical cascade events that ultimately result in reduced crop yield. There is growing interest among researchers in the use of beneficial microorganisms. Intricate and highly complex interactions between plants and microbes result in the alleviation of heat stress. Plant–microbe interactions are mediated by the production of phytohormones, siderophores, gene expression, osmolytes, and volatile compounds in plants. Their interaction improves antioxidant activity and accumulation of compatible osmolytes such as proline, glycine betaine, soluble sugar, and trehalose, and enriches the nutrient status of stressed plants. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the heat response of plants and to understand the mechanisms of microbe-mediated stress alleviation on a physio-molecular basis. This review indicates that microbes have a great potential to enhance the protection of plants from heat stress and enhance plant growth and yield. Owing to the metabolic diversity of microorganisms, they can be useful in mitigating heat stress in crop plants. In this regard, microorganisms do not present new threats to ecological systems. Overall, it is expected that continued research on microbe-mediated heat stress tolerance in plants will enable this technology to be used as an ecofriendly tool for sustainable agronomy.

Salvianolic Acid Modulates Physiological Responses and Stress-Related Genes That Affect Osmotic Stress Tolerance in Glycine max and Zea mays

Drought is a serious threat worldwide to soybean and maize production. This study was conducted to discern the impact of salvianolic acid treatment on osmotic-stressed soybean (Glycine max L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings from the perspective of physiochemical and molecular reactions. Examination of varied salvianolic acid concentrations (0, 0.1, 1, 5, 10, and 25 μM) on soybean and maize seedling growth confirmed that the 0.1 and 1 μM concentrations, respectively, showed an improvement in agronomic traits. Likewise, the investigation ascertained how salvianolic acid application could retrieve osmotic-stressed plants. Soybean and maize seedlings were irrigated with water or 25% PEG for 8 days. The results indicated that salvianolic acid application promoted the survival of the 39-day-old osmotic-stressed soybean and maize plants. The salvianolic acid-treated plants retained high photosynthetic pigments, protein, amino acid, fatty acid, sugar, and antioxidant contents, and demonstrated low hydrogen peroxide and lipid contents under osmotic stress conditions. Gene transcription pattern certified that salvianolic acid application led to an increased expression of GmGOGAT, GmUBC2, ZmpsbA, ZmNAGK, ZmVPP1, and ZmSCE1d genes, and a diminished expression of GmMIPS2, GmSOG1, GmACS, GmCKX, ZmPIS, and ZmNAC48 genes. Together, our results indicate the utility of salvianolic acid to enhance the osmotic endurance of soybean and maize plants.

Research Progress in the Field of Microbial Mitigation of Drought Stress in Plants

Plants defend themselves against ecological stresses including drought. Therefore, they adopt various strategies to cope with stress, such as seepage and drought tolerance mechanisms, which allow plant development under drought conditions. There is evidence that microbes play a role in plant drought tolerance. In this study, we presented a review of the literature describing the initiation of drought tolerance mediated by plant inoculation with fungi, bacteria, viruses, and several bacterial elements, as well as the plant transduction pathways identified via archetypal functional or morphological annotations and contemporary "omics" technologies. Overall, microbial associations play a potential role in mediating plant protection responses to drought, which is an important factor for agricultural manufacturing systems that are affected by fluctuating climate.

The Combined Inoculation of Curvularia lunata AR11 and Biochar Stimulates Synthetic Silicon and Potassium Phosphate Use Efficiency, and Mitigates Salt and Drought Stresses in Rice

Synthetic chemical fertilizers are a fundamental source of nutrition for agricultural crops; however, their limited availability, low plant uptake, and excessive application have caused severe ecological imbalances. In addition, the gravity of environmental stresses, such as salinity and water stress, has already exceeded the threshold limit. Therefore, the optimization of nutrient efficiency in terms of plant uptake is crucial for sustainable agricultural production. To address these challenges, we isolated the rhizospheric fungus Curvularia lunata ARJ2020 (AR11) and screened the optimum doses of biochar, silicon, and potassium phosphate (K2HPO4), and used them-individually or jointly-to treat rice plants subjected to salt (150 mM) and drought stress (20-40% soil moisture). Bioassay analysis revealed that AR11 is a highly halotolerant and drought-resistant strain with an innate ability to produce gibberellin (GA1, GA3, GA4, and GA7) and organic acids (i.e., acetic, succinic, tartaric, and malic acids). In the plant experiment, the co-application of AR11 + Biochar + Si + K2HPO4 significantly improved rice growth under both salt and drought stresses. The plant growth regulator known as abscisic acid, was significantly reduced in co-application-treated rice plants exposed to both drought and salt stress conditions. These plants showed higher Si (80%), P (69%), and K (85%) contents and a markedly low Na+ ion (208%) concentration. The results were further validated by the higher expression of the Si-carrying gene OsLSi1, the salt-tolerant gene OsHKT2, and the OsGRAS23's drought-tolerant transcriptome. Interestingly, the beneficial effect of AR11 was significantly higher than that of the co-application of Biochar + Si + K2HPO4 under drought. Moreover, the proline content of AR11-treated plants decreased significantly, and an enhancement of plant growth-promoting characteristics was observed. These results suggest that the integrated co-application of biochar, chemical fertilizers, and microbiome could mitigate abiotic stresses, stimulate the bioavailability of essential nutrients, relieve phytotoxicity, and ultimately enhance plant growth.

Advantages and Limitations of Clinical Scores for Donation After Circulatory Death Liver Transplantation

Background: Scoring systems have been proposed to select donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors and recipients for liver transplantation (LT). We hypothesized that complex scoring systems derived in large datasets might not predict outcomes locally. Methods: Based on 1-year DCD-LT graft survival predictors in multivariate logistic regression models, we designed, validated, and compared a simple index using the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) cohort (n = 136) and a universal-comprehensive (UC)-DCD score using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) cohort (n = 5,792) to previously published DCD scoring systems. Results: The total warm ischemia time (WIT)-index included donor WIT (dWIT) and hepatectomy time (dHep). The UC-DCD score included dWIT, dHep, recipient on mechanical ventilation, transjugular-intrahepatic-portosystemic-shunt, cause of liver disease, model for end-stage liver disease, body mass index, donor/recipient age, and cold ischemia time. In the UNOS cohort, the UC-score outperformed all previously published scores in predicting DCD-LT graft survival (AUC: 0.635 vs. ≤0.562). In the UCSF cohort, the total WIT index successfully stratified survival and biliary complications, whereas other scores did not. Conclusion: DCD risk scores generated in large cohorts provide general guidance for safe recipient/donor selection, but they must be tailored based on non-/partially-modifiable local circumstances to expand DCD utilization.

Non-operative management of biliary complications after Liver Transplantation in pediatric patients: A 30-year experience

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous and endoscopic therapeutic interventions for biliary strictures and leaks following LT in children.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 49 consecutive pediatric liver transplant recipients (27 girls, 22 boys, mean age at transplant 3.9 years) treated at our institution from 1989 to 2019 for biliary leak and/or biliary stricture was performed. Minimally invasive approach was considered clinically successful if it resulted in patency of the narrowed biliary segment and/or correction of the biliary leak.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients had a stricture at the biliary anastomosis; seven had a biliary leak. After an average 13.8 years of follow-up, long-term clinical success with minimally invasive treatment (no surgery or re-transplant) was achieved for 24 children (57%) with biliary stricture and 4 (57%) with biliary leaks. Eight patients required re-transplant; however, only one was due to failure of both percutaneous and surgical management. For biliary strictures, failure of non-surgical management was associated with younger age at stricture diagnosis (p < .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous and endoscopic management of biliary strictures and leaks after LT in children is associated with a durable result in >50% of children.

Exogenous melatonin induces drought stress tolerance by promoting plant growth and antioxidant defence system of soybean plants

Melatonin is an indolamine bioactive molecule that regulates a wide range of physiological processes during plant growth and enhances abiotic stress tolerance. Here we examined the putative role of exogenous melatonin application (foliar or root zone) in improving drought stress tolerance in soybean seedlings. Pre-treatment of soybean seedlings with melatonin (50 and 100 µM) was found to significantly mitigate the negative effects of drought stress on plant growth-related parameters and chlorophyll content. The beneficial impacts against drought were more pronounced by melatonin application in the rhizosphere than in foliar treatments. The melatonin-induced enhanced tolerance could be attributed to improved photosynthetic activity, reduction of abscisic acid and drought-induced oxidative damage by lowering the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde. Interestingly, the contents of jasmonic acid and salicylic acid were significantly higher following melatonin treatment in the root zone than in foliar treatment compared with the control. The activity of major antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase was stimulated by melatonin application. In addition, melatonin counteracted the drought-induced increase in proline and sugar content. These findings revealed that modifying the endogenous plant hormone content and antioxidant enzymes by melatonin application improved drought tolerance in soybean seedlings. Our findings provide evidence for the stronger physiological role of melatonin in the root zone than in leaves, which may be useful in the large-scale field level application during drought.

Rhizospheric Bacillus spp. Rescues Plant Growth Under Salinity Stress via Regulating Gene Expression, Endogenous Hormones, and Antioxidant System of Oryza sativa L

Salinity has drastically reduced crop yields and harmed the global agricultural industry. We isolated 55 bacterial strains from plants inhabiting the coastal sand dunes of Pohang, Korea. A screening bioassay showed that 14 of the bacterial isolates secreted indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 12 isolates were capable of exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and phosphate solubilization, and 10 isolates secreted siderophores. Based on our preliminary screening, 11 bacterial isolates were tested for salinity tolerance on Luria-Bertani (LB) media supplemented with 0, 50, 100, and 150 mM of NaCl. Three bacterial isolates, ALT11, ALT12, and ALT30, had the best tolerance against elevated NaCl levels and were selected for further study. Inoculation of the selected bacterial isolates significantly enhanced rice growth attributes, viz., shoot length (22.8-42.2%), root length (28.18-59%), fresh biomass (44.7-66.41%), dry biomass (85-90%), chlorophyll content (18.30-36.15%), Chl a (29.02-60.87%), Chl b (30.86-64.51%), and carotenoid content (26.86-70%), under elevated salt stress of 70 and 140 mM. Furthermore, a decrease in the endogenous abscisic acid (ABA) content (27.9-23%) and endogenous salicylic acid (SA) levels (11.70-69.19%) was observed in inoculated plants. Antioxidant analysis revealed an increase in total protein (TP) levels (42.57-68.26%), whereas it revealed a decrease in polyphenol peroxidase (PPO) (24.63-34.57%), glutathione (GSH) (25.53-24.91%), SOA (13.88-18.67%), and LPO levels (15.96-26.06%) of bacterial-inoculated plants. Moreover, an increase in catalase (CAT) (26-33.04%), peroxidase (POD) (59.55-78%), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (13.58-27.77%), and ascorbic peroxidase (APX) (5.76-22.74%) activity was observed. Additionally, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis showed a decline in Na⁺ content (24.11 and 30.60%) and an increase in K⁺ (23.14 and 15.45%) and Mg⁺ (2.82 and 18.74%) under elevated salt stress. OsNHX1 gene expression was downregulated (0.3 and 4.1-folds), whereas the gene expression of OsPIN1A, OsCATA, and OsAPX1 was upregulated by a 7-17-fold in bacterial-inoculated rice plants. It was concluded that the selected bacterial isolates, ALT11, ALT12, and ALT30, mitigated the adverse effects of salt stress on rice growth and can be used as climate smart agricultural tools in ecofriendly agricultural practices.

Biocontrol Potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens against Botrytis pelargonii and Alternaria alternata on Capsicum annuum

The aim of this study was to assess the ability of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, to augment plant growth and suppress gray mold and leaf spot in pepper plants. Morphological modifications in fungal pathogen hyphae that expanded toward the PGPR colonies were detected via scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, preliminary screening showed that PGPR could produce various hydrolytic enzymes in its media. Treatments with B. amyloliquefaciens suppressed Botrytis gray mold and Alternaria leaf spot diseases on pepper caused by Botrytis pelargonii and Alternaria alternata, respectively. The PGPR strain modulated plant physio-biochemical processes. The inoculation of pepper with PGPR decreased protein, amino acid, antioxidant, hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxidation, and abscisic acid levels but increased salicylic acid and sugar levels compared to those of uninoculated plants, indicating a mitigation of the adverse effects of biotic stress. Moreover, gene expression studies confirmed physio-biochemical findings. PGPR inoculation led to increased expression of the CaXTH genes and decreased expression of CaAMP1, CaPR1, CaDEF1, CaWRKY2, CaBI-1, CaASRF1, CaSBP11, and CaBiP genes. Considering its beneficial effects, the inoculation of B. amyloliquefaciens can be proposed as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical fungicides.

Rhizospheric Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Protects Capsicum annuum cv. Geumsugangsan From Multiple Abiotic Stresses via Multifarious Plant Growth-Promoting Attributes

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial microorganisms that can be utilized to improve plant responses against biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, we investigated whether PGPR (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens) isolated from the endorhizosphere of Sasamorpha borealis have the potential to sustain pepper growth under drought, salinity, and heavy metal stresses. The bacterial strain was determined based on 16S rDNA and gyrB gene sequencing and characterized based on the following biochemical traits: nitrogen fixation; 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase activity; indole acetic acid production; inorganic phosphate, potassium, zinc, and silicon solubilization; and siderophore production. Various abiotic stresses were applied to 28-day-old pepper seedlings, and the influence of the PGPR strain on pepper seedling growth under these stress conditions was evaluated. The application of PGPR improved survival of the inoculated pepper plants under stress conditions, which was reflected by higher seedling growth rate and improved physiochemical traits. The PGPR-treated plants maintained high chlorophyll, salicylic acid, sugar, amino acid, and proline contents and showed low lipid metabolism, abscisic acid, protein, hydrogen peroxide contents, and antioxidant activities under stress conditions. Gene expression studies confirmed our physiological and biochemical findings. PGPR inoculation led to enhanced expression of XTH genes and reduced expression of WRKY2, BI-1, PTI1, and binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) genes. We conclude that the PGPR strain described in this study has great potential for use in the phytoremediation of heavy metals and for enhancing pepper plant productivity under stress conditions, particularly those involving salinity and drought.

Halotolerant bacteria mitigate the effects of salinity stress on soybean growth by regulating secondary metabolites and molecular responses

BACKGROUND

Salinity is a major threat to the agriculture industry due to the negative impact of salinity stress on crop productivity. In the present study, we isolated rhizobacteria and evaluated their capacities to promote crop growth under salt stress conditions.

RESULTS

We isolated rhizospheric bacteria from sand dune flora of Pohang beach, Korea, and screened them for plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits. Among 55 bacterial isolates, 14 produced indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 10 produced siderophores, and 12 produced extracellular polymeric and phosphate solubilization. Based on these PGP traits, we selected 11 isolates to assess for salinity tolerance. Among them, ALT29 and ALT43 showed the highest tolerance to salinity stress. Next, we tested the culture filtrate of isolates ALT29 and ALT43 for IAA and organic acids to confirm the presence of these PGP products. To investigate the effects of ALT29 and ALT43 on salt tolerance in soybean, we grew seedlings in 0 mM, 80 mM, 160 mM, and 240 mM NaCl treatments, inoculating half with the bacterial isolates. Inoculation with ALT29 and ALT43 significantly increased shoot length (13%), root length (21%), shoot fresh and dry weight (44 and 35%), root fresh and dry weight (9%), chlorophyll content (16-24%), Chl a (8-43%), Chl b (13-46%), and carotenoid (14-39%) content of soybean grown under salt stress. Inoculation with ALT29 and ALT43 also significantly decreased endogenous ABA levels (0.77-fold) and increased endogenous SA contents (6-16%), increased total protein (10-20%) and glutathione contents, and reduced lipid peroxidation (0.8-5-fold), superoxide anion (21-68%), peroxidase (12.14-17.97%), and polyphenol oxidase (11.76-27.06%) contents in soybean under salinity stress. In addition, soybean treated with ALT29 and ALT43 exhibited higher K+ uptake (9.34-67.03%) and reduced Na+ content (2-4.5-fold). Genes involved in salt tolerance, GmFLD19 and GmNARK, were upregulated under NaCl stress; however, significant decreases in GmFLD19 (3-12-fold) and GmNARK (1.8-3.7-fold) expression were observed in bacterial inoculated plants.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, bacterial isolates ALT29 and ALT43 can mitigate salinity stress and increase plant growth, providing an eco-friendly approach for addressing saline conditions in agricultural production systems.

First Report of Fruit Canker Caused by Nothophoma quercina on Chinese quince in South Korea

The Chinese quince (Pseudocydonia sinensis (Thouin) CK Schneid.) is a tree that is commonly distributed in all regions of South Korea and other Asian countries. The ripened yellow fruit contains medically active compounds (Hamauzu et al. 2005). It has been consumed as tea and candies and used in traditional medicine for treating asthma, cough, influenza, harsh throat, and tuberculosis and for liver protection (Chun et al. 2012). In the Kyungpook National University campus (Daegu, South Korea), fruit canker on the Chinese quince was ubiquitously observed during May-August 2020. The average disease incidence was around 30%-40%, which caused significant yield loss. Initially, minute, brown-to-rust-colored, unbroken, circular, necrotic areas appear, and in the advanced stage of infection, the epidermis tears open and tube- or aecia-like white structures are formed. Successively, the affected areas become necrotic and gradually enlarge to reach 3-5 cm in diameter. To isolate the causative pathogen, symptomatic tissues obtained from diseased fruits were surface-sterilized for 1 min with 70% ethanol, rinsed in sterile distilled water, and plated onto potato dextrose agar (PDA). The inoculated plates were incubated for 7 days at 25°C. Successively, pure cultures were obtained by transferring hyphal tips to new PDA plates. A total of 15 isolates were obtained across 20 fruit trees investigated. The colonies on the PDA plates reached a diameter of 60-70 mm after 7 days at 25°C, spreading with a regular margin, aerial mycelium covering the entire colony, compact, white to pale gray in color, and solitary and globose pycnidia were produced after ten days. Conidiogenous cells were phialidic, hyaline, simple, smooth, doliiform to ampulliform, 3-5 × 3-4 μm; conidia were subglobose to oval or obtuse, thin-walled, smooth, aseptate, minute guttules, brown, 5.5-8 × 4-7 μm. These morphologies corresponded to those of phoma-like species. Sequence data for the 28S nrDNA, the internal transcribed spacer, β-tubulin, and RNA polymerase II subunit (White et al. 1990, Liu et al. 1999, Aveskamp et al. 2009) were obtained randomly for one of the pure isolates (EAH 2), which resulted in the GenBank accession numbers MW325675, MW325676, MW330391, and MW330390, respectively. The RAxML analysis (Stamatakis 2014) was run on the CIPRES Science Gateway portal of the combined sequence data of the isolate EAH 2 and the reference sequences obtained from GenBank. Analyses for the combined datasets were conducted with RAxML-HPC2 on XSEDE v. 8.2.10 using a GTR+GAMMA substitution model with 1000 bootstrap iterations. Results demonstrated that the isolate EAH2 formed a strongly support clade with the type isolates of Nothophoma quercina (Syd.) Q. Chen & L. Cai (basionym: Ampelomyces quercinus), which has been found on Quercus sp. in Ukraine (Chen et al. 2015). The procedure for Koch's postulates was followed to confirm fungal pathogenicity using 3-day-old mycelial disks. A total of 15 same-aged healthy fruits were divided into three groups, and each group received a different treatment. Artificial wounds were created on one group of fruits using a sterile pin, and a 5-mm mycelial plug of the fungus was placed on the injured tissues. Mycelial plugs were also placed on the surfaces of the sets of unwounded fruits. The remaining fruits were maintained as control and inoculated with sterile PDA plugs. The test was repeated three times. The wounded fruits exhibited symptoms after 8-10 identical to those observed in the field. The control group remained asymptomatic, and the morphology of the fungus reisolated from the inoculated fruits was similar to that of N. quercina. The phylogeny, together with morphological identification and inoculation results, confirmed the identity of the fungus as N. quercina (Chen et al. 2015). A previous study had also reported shoot canker caused by N. quercina in the Chinese quince (Yun and Oh 2016). However, to our knowledge, this is the first report of fruit canker caused by N. quercina in the Chinese quince.

Melatonin Enhances the Tolerance and Recovery Mechanisms in Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. Under Saline Conditions

Melatonin has been recently known to stimulate plant growth and induce protective responses against different abiotic stresses. However, the mechanisms behind exogenous melatonin pretreatment and restoration of plant vigor from salinity stress remain poorly understood. The present study aimed to understand the effects of exogenous melatonin pretreatment on salinity-damaged green mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern.) seedlings in terms of oxidative stress regulation and endogenous phytohormone production. Screening of several melatonin concentrations (0, 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 μM) on mustard growth showed that the 1 μM concentration revealed an ameliorative increase of plant height, leaf length, and leaf width. The second study aimed at determining how melatonin application can recover salinity-damaged plants and studying its effects on physiological and biochemical parameters. Under controlled environmental conditions, mustard seedlings were irrigated with distilled water or 150 mM of NaCl for 7 days. This was followed by 1 μM of melatonin application to determine its recovery impact on the damaged plants. Furthermore, several physiological and biochemical parameters were examined in stressed and unstressed seedlings with or without melatonin application. Our results showed that plant height, leaf length/width, and stem diameter were enhanced in 38-day-old salinity-stressed plants under melatonin treatment. Melatonin application obviously attenuated salinity-induced reduction in gas exchange parameters, relative water content, and amino acid and protein levels, as well as antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. H₂O₂ accumulation in salinity-damaged plants was reduced by melatonin treatment. A decline in abscisic acid content and an increase in salicylic acid content were observed in salinity-damaged seedlings supplemented with melatonin. Additionally, chlorophyll content decreased during the recovery period in salinity-damaged plants by melatonin treatment. This study highlighted, for the first time, the recovery impact of melatonin on salinity-damaged green mustard seedlings. It demonstrated that exogenous melatonin supplementation significantly improved the physiologic and biochemical parameters in salinity-damaged green mustard seedlings.

Expanding living donor liver transplantation: Report of first US living donor liver transplant chain

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) enjoys widespread use in Asia, but remains limited to a handful of centers in North America and comprises only 5% of liver transplants performed in the United States. In contrast, living donor kidney transplantation is used frequently in the United States, and has evolved to commonly include paired exchanges, particularly for ABO-incompatible pairs. Liver paired exchange (LPE) has been utilized in Asia, and was recently reported in Canada; here we report the first LPE performed in the United States, and the first LPE to be performed on consecutive days. The LPE performed at our institution was initiated by a nondirected donor who enabled the exchange for an ABO-incompatible pair, and the final recipient was selected from our deceased donor waitlist. The exchange was performed over the course of 2 consecutive days, and relied on the use and compliance of a bridge donor. Here, we show that LPE is feasible at centers with significant LDLT experience and affords an opportunity to expand LDLT in cases of ABO incompatibility or when nondirected donors arise. To our knowledge, this represents the first exchange of its kind in the United States.

First Report of Didymosphaeria rubi-ulmifolii Brown Spot infection of Chinese quince fruit in South Korea

Chinese quince (Pseudocydonia sinensis (Thouin) CK Schneid.), a deciduous tree in the family Rosaceae, is native to China, Japan, and South Korea; the fruit is known as mogwa in South Korea. The ripened yellow fruit has been used as a traditional therapeutic for respiratory ailments and as an additive in health products such as syrups, tea, and candies (Sawai et al. 2008). From May to August 2020, Chinese quince trees showing symptoms of brown spots were observed on the Kyungpook National University premises, Daegu, South Korea, with an incidence of 30%-40%. The disease first appeared as small, round, yellow specks on the fruits, which necrotized over time and gradually enlarged to 0.7-2.7 cm in diameter. To isolate the pathogen, symptomatic tissues obtained from disease fruit were surface sterilized for 1 min with 70% ethanol, rinsed in sterile distilled water, and plated onto potato dextrose agar (PDA). The inoculated plates were incubated at 25°C for 7 days. Successively, pure cultures were obtained by transferring hyphal tips to new PDA plates. Twenty isolates were obtained from 25 fruit. Colonies on PDA reached a diameter of 30-40 mm. After incubation for 7 days at 25°C, spreading with an even, colorless-to-buff glabrous margin, a submarginal ring of conidiomata developed from day 5 to 12 and was visible as scattered dots on either side of the plate. Conidiogenous cells were discrete (3.5-6 × 3.5-5 μm); conidia were ellipsoid to short-cylindrical [3-5 × 2.1-3.5 μm (n = 60)] and olivaceous in color. These conidial dimensions corresponded to those of Didymosphaeria rubi-ulmifolii Ariyaw., Camporesi & K.D. Hyde (basionym: Paraconiothyrium brasiliense), which has been found on Rubus ulmifolius in Italy (Ariyawansa et al. 2014). Sequence data for the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit ribosomal RNA (LSU), and partial translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF) (White et al. 1990, Rehner and Buckley 2005) were obtained for one of the pure culture isolate (BT1) with GenBank accession numbers MW020087, MW020060 and MW027220, respectively. The sequences of BT1 isolate using a BLASTn analysis showed 100% identity with the ex-type MFLUCC 14-0023 of D. rubi-ulmifolii in ITS, and LSU portions (accession nos. MT310602, and MT214555, respectively) and 99% identity in TEF portion (accession no. MT394734). The procedure for Koch's postulates was followed to confirm fungal pathogenicity using 3-day-old mycelial discs. Fifteen healthy fruit were divided into three groups of five fruit each, with each group receiving a different treatment. One group of fruit was wounded by puncturing with a sterile pin and inoculated using 5-mm agar discs with mycelium on the wounds. Mycelium covered agar discs were also placed on the surfaces of five unwounded fruits. The remaining five fruit were maintained as a control and inoculated with sterile PDA plugs. The pathogenicity test was replicated thrice. The wounded fruits showed symptoms similar to those observed in the field. The control group remained asymptomatic and the morphology of the fungus re-isolated from the inoculated fruit was the same as that of D. rubi-ulmifolii. The phylogeny, together with the morphological identification and inoculation results, confirmed the identity of the fungus as D. rubi-ulmifolii (Ariyawansa et al. 2014). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of D. rubi-ulmifolii causing brown spot in Chinese quince.

Enhancement of Drought-Stress Tolerance of Brassica oleracea var. italica L. by Newly Isolated Variovorax sp. YNA59

Drought is a major abiotic factor and has drastically reduced crop yield globally, thus damaging the agricultural industry. Drought stress decreases crop productivity by negatively affecting crop morphological, physiological, and biochemical factors. The use of drought tolerant bacteria improves agricultural productivity by counteracting the negative effects of drought stress on crops. In this study, we isolated bacteria from the rhizosphere of broccoli field located in Daehaw-myeon, Republic of Korea. Sixty bacterial isolates were screened for their growth-promoting capacity, in vitro abscisic acid (ABA), and sugar production activities. Among these, bacterial isolates YNA59 was selected based on their plant growth-promoting bacteria traits, ABA, and sugar production activities. Isolate YNA59 highly tolerated oxidative stress, including hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and produces superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities in the culture broth. YNA59 treatment on broccoli significantly enhanced plant growth attributes, chlorophyll content, and moisture content under drought stress conditions. Under drought stress, the endogenous levels of ABA, jasmonic acid (JA), and salicylic acid (SA) increased; however, inoculation of YNA59 markedly reduced ABA (877 ± 22 ng/g) and JA (169.36 ± 20.74 ng/g) content, while it enhanced SA levels (176.55 ± 9.58 ng/g). Antioxidant analysis showed that the bacterial isolate YNA59 inoculated into broccoli plants contained significantly higher levels of SOD, CAT, and APX, with a decrease in GPX levels. The bacterial isolate YNA59 was therefore identified as Variovorax sp. YNA59. Our current findings suggest that newly isolated drought tolerant rhizospheric Variovorax sp. YNA59 is a useful stress-evading rhizobacterium that improved droughtstress tolerance of broccoli and could be used as a bio-fertilizer under drought conditions.

The Halotolerant Rhizobacterium-Pseudomonas koreensis MU2 Enhances Inorganic Silicon and Phosphorus Use Efficiency and Augments Salt Stress Tolerance in Soybean (Glycine max L.)

Optimizing nutrient usage in plants is vital for a sustainable yield under biotic and abiotic stresses. Since silicon and phosphorus are considered key elements for plant growth, this study assessed the efficient supplementation strategy of silicon and phosphorus in soybean plants under salt stress through inoculation using the rhizospheric strain—Pseudomonas koreensis MU2. The screening analysis of MU2 showed its high salt-tolerant potential, which solubilizes both silicate and phosphate. The isolate, MU2 produced gibberellic acid (GA₁, GA₃) and organic acids (malic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, and tartaric acid) in pure culture under both normal and salt-stressed conditions. The combined application of MU2, silicon, and phosphorus significantly improved silicon and phosphorus uptake, reduced Na⁺ ion influx by 70%, and enhanced K⁺ uptake by 46% in the shoots of soybean plants grown under salt-stress conditions. MU2 inoculation upregulated the salt-resistant genes GmST1, GmSALT3, and GmAKT2, which significantly reduced the endogenous hormones abscisic acid and jasmonic acid while, it enhanced the salicylic acid content of soybean. In addition, MU2 inoculation strengthened the host’s antioxidant system through the reduction of lipid peroxidation and proline while, it enhanced the reduced glutathione content. Moreover, MU2 inoculation promoted root and shoot length, plant biomass, and the chlorophyll content of soybean plants. These findings suggest that MU2 could be a potential biofertilizer catalyst for the amplification of the use efficiency of silicon and phosphorus fertilizers to mitigate salt stress.

Thermotolerance effect of plant growth-promoting Bacillus cereus SA1 on soybean during heat stress

BACKGROUND

Incidences of heat stress due to the changing global climate can negatively affect the growth and yield of temperature-sensitive crops such as soybean variety, Pungsannamul. Increased temperatures decrease crop productivity by affecting biochemical, physiological, molecular, and morphological factors either individually or in combination with other abiotic stresses. The application of plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria (PGPEB) offers an ecofriendly approach for improving agriculture crop production and counteracting the negative effects of heat stress.

RESULTS

We isolated, screened and identified thermotolerant B. cereus SA1 as a bacterium that could produce biologically active metabolites, such as gibberellin, indole-3-acetic acid, and organic acids. SA1 inoculation improved the biomass, chlorophyll content, and chlorophyll fluorescence of soybean plants under normal and heat stress conditions for 5 and 10 days. Heat stress increased abscisic acid (ABA) and reduced salicylic acid (SA); however, SA1 inoculation markedly reduced ABA and increased SA. Antioxidant analysis results showed that SA1 increased the ascorbic acid peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione contents in soybean plants. In addition, heat stress markedly decreased amino acid contents; however, they were increased with SA1 inoculation. Heat stress for 5 days increased heat shock protein (HSP) expression, and a decrease in GmHSP expression was observed after 10 days; however, SA1 inoculation augmented the heat stress response and increased HSP expression. The stress-responsive GmLAX3 and GmAKT2 were overexpressed in SA1-inoculated plants and may be associated with decreased reactive oxygen species generation, altered auxin and ABA stimuli, and enhanced potassium gradients, which are critical in plants under heat stress.

CONCLUSION

The current findings suggest that B. cereus SA1 could be used as a thermotolerant bacterium for the mitigation of heat stress damage in soybean plants and could be commercialized as a biofertilizer only in case found non-pathogenic.

Effect of Ammonia and Indole-3-acetic Acid Producing Endophytic Klebsiella pneumoniae YNA12 as a Bio-Herbicide for Weed Inhibition: Special Reference with Evening Primroses

Information on the use of endophytic bacteria as a bio-herbicide for the management of weed control in agricultural fields is limited. The current study aimed to isolate endophytic bacteria from evening primroses and to screen them for their bio-herbicidal activity. Two isolated endophytic bacteria (Pantoea dispersa YNA11 and Klebsiella pneumoniae YNA12) were initially screened for citrate utilization and for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and catalase production. The preliminary biochemical assessment showed YNA12 as a positive strain. Ammonia, catalase, and IAA in its culture filtrate were quantified. Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy- Selective Ion Monitoring (GC/MS-SIM) analysis revealed the production of IAA by YNA12 in a time-dependent manner. YNA12 also exhibited significant ammonia-producing potential and catalase activity against hydrogen peroxide. The YNA12 culture filtrate significantly inhibited the germination rate of evening primrose seeds, resulting in a marked reduction in seedling length and biomass compared with those of the control seeds. Moreover, the culture filtrate of YNA12 significantly accelerated the endogenous abscisic acid (ABA) production and catalase activity of evening primrose seedlings. Macronutrient regulation was adversely affected in the seedlings exposed to the culture filtrate of YNA12, leading to inhibition of seed germination. The current results suggest that endophytic YNA12 may be used as a potent bio-herbicidal agent for controlling weed growth and development.

Inoculation with Indole-3-Acetic Acid-Producing Rhizospheric Rhodobacter sphaeroides KE149 Augments Growth of Adzuki Bean Plants Under Water Stress

The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria is economically viable and environmentally safe for mitigating various plant stresses. Abiotic stresses such as flood and drought are a serious threat to present day agriculture. In the present study, the indole-3-acetic acid-producing rhizobacterium R. sphaeroides KE149 was selected, and its effect on the growth of adzuki bean plants was investigated under flood stress (FS) and drought stress (DS). IAA quantification of bacterial pure culture revealed that KE149 produced significant amount of IAA. KE149 inoculation significantly decreased stress-responsive endogenous abscisic acid and jasmonic acid and increased salicylic acid in plants under DS and FS. KE149 inoculation also increased proline under DS and methionine under FS. Moreover, KE149 inoculation significantly increased the calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K) content and lowered the sodium (Na) content in the plant shoot under stress. KE149-treated plants had significantly higher root length, shoot length, stem diameter, biomass, and chlorophyll content under both normal and stressed conditions. These results suggest that KE149 could be an efficient biofertilizer for mitigating water stress.

Regulatory cell therapy in kidney transplantation (The ONE Study): a harmonised design and analysis of seven non-randomised, single-arm, phase 1/2A trials

BACKGROUND

Use of cell-based medicinal products (CBMPs) represents a state-of-the-art approach for reducing general immunosuppression in organ transplantation. We tested multiple regulatory CBMPs in kidney transplant trials to establish the safety of regulatory CBMPs when combined with reduced immunosuppressive treatment.

METHODS

The ONE Study consisted of seven investigator-led, single-arm trials done internationally at eight hospitals in France, Germany, Italy, the UK, and the USA (60 week follow-up). Included patients were living-donor kidney transplant recipients aged 18 years and older. The reference group trial (RGT) was a standard-of-care group given basiliximab, tapered steroids, mycophenolate mofetil, and tacrolimus. Six non-randomised phase 1/2A cell therapy group (CTG) trials were pooled and analysed, in which patients received one of six CBMPs containing regulatory T cells, dendritic cells, or macrophages; patient selection and immunosuppression mirrored the RGT, except basiliximab induction was substituted with CBMPs and mycophenolate mofetil tapering was allowed. None of the trials were randomised and none of the individuals involved were masked. The primary endpoint was biopsy-confirmed acute rejection (BCAR) within 60 weeks after transplantation; adverse event coding was centralised. The RTG and CTG trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01656135, NCT02252055, NCT02085629, NCT02244801, NCT02371434, NCT02129881, and NCT02091232.

FINDINGS

The seven trials took place between Dec 11, 2012, and Nov 14, 2018. Of 782 patients assessed for eligibility, 130 (17%) patients were enrolled and 104 were treated and included in the analysis. The 66 patients who were treated in the RGT were 73% male and had a median age of 47 years. The 38 patients who were treated across six CTG trials were 71% male and had a median age of 45 years. Standard-of-care immunosuppression in the recipients in the RGT resulted in a 12% BCAR rate (expected range 3·2-18·0). The overall BCAR rate for the six parallel CTG trials was 16%. 15 (40%) patients given CBMPs were successfully weaned from mycophenolate mofetil and maintained on tacrolimus monotherapy. Combined adverse event data and BCAR episodes from all six CTG trials revealed no safety concerns when compared with the RGT. Fewer episodes of infections were registered in CTG trials versus the RGT.

INTERPRETATION

Regulatory cell therapy is achievable and safe in living-donor kidney transplant recipients, and is associated with fewer infectious complications, but similar rejection rates in the first year. Therefore, immune cell therapy is a potentially useful therapeutic approach in recipients of kidney transplant to minimise the burden of general immunosuppression.

FUNDING

The 7th EU Framework Programme.

Inferior Long-Term Graft Survival of Suboptimal Kidneys After Living Donor Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

In living donors, if both kidneys are considered to be of equal quality, the side with favorable anatomy for transplant is usually selected. A "suboptimal kidney" is a kidney that has a significant abnormality and is chosen to maintain the principle of leaving the better kidney with the donor. We hypothesized that the long-term outcome of suboptimal kidney is inferior to that of the normal kidney.

METHODS

In a retrospective analysis of 1744 living donor kidney transplantations performed between 1999 and 2015 at our institution, 172 allografts were considered as a suboptimal kidney (9.9%). Median length of follow-up after living donor kidney transplantation was 59.5 months (interquartile range 26.3-100.8). This study strictly complied with the Helsinki Congress and the Istanbul Declaration regarding donor source.

RESULTS

The reasons for suboptimal kidneys were cysts or tumors (46.5%), arterial abnormalities (22.7%), inferior size or function (19.8%), and anatomic abnormalities (11.0%). Suboptimal kidneys showed worse long-term overall graft survival regardless of the reasons (5-year: control vs suboptimal kidney; 88.9% vs 79.3%, P = .001 and 10-year: 73.6% vs 63.5%, P = .004). Suboptimal kidneys showed a 1.6-fold higher adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of all-cause graft loss (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-2.5, P = .025) and had the same impact as older donor age (≥ 54 years old, aHR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1-2.4, P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

The impact of suboptimal kidney should be factored into the donor selection process.

Extending thermotolerance to tomato seedlings by inoculation with SA1 isolate of Bacillus cereus and comparison with exogenous humic acid application

Heat stress is one of the major abiotic stresses that impair plant growth and crop productivity. Plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria (PGPEB) and humic acid (HA) are used as bio-stimulants and ecofriendly approaches to improve agriculture crop production and counteract the negative effects of heat stress. Current study aimed to analyze the effect of thermotolerant SA1 an isolate of Bacillus cereus and HA on tomato seedlings. The results showed that combine application of SA1+HA significantly improved the biomass and chlorophyll fluorescence of tomato plants under normal and heat stress conditions. Heat stress increased abscisic acid (ABA) and reduced salicylic acid (SA) content; however, combined application of SA1+HA markedly reduced ABA and increased SA. Antioxidant enzymes activities revealed that SA1 and HA treated plants exhibited increased levels of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH). In addition, heat stress markedly reduced the amino acid contents; however, the amino acids were increased with co-application of SA1+HA. Similarly, inductively-coupled plasma mass-spectrometry results showed that plants treated with SA1+HA exhibited significantly higher iron (Fe+), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K+) uptake during heat stress. Heat stress increased the relative expression of SlWRKY33b and autophagy-related (SlATG5) genes, whereas co-application of SA1+HA augmented the heat stress response and reduced SlWRKY33b and SlATG5 expression. The heat stress-responsive transcription factor (SlHsfA1a) and high-affinity potassium transporter (SlHKT1) were upregulated in SA1+HA-treated plants. In conclusion, current findings suggest that co-application with SA1+HA can be used for the mitigation of heat stress damage in tomato plants and can be commercialized as a biofertilizer.

Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas psychrotolerans CS51, a Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterium, Under Heavy Metal Stress Conditions

In the current study, we aimed to elucidate the plant growth-promoting characteristics of Pseudomonas psychrotolerans CS51 under heavy metal stress conditions (Zn, Cu, and Cd) and determine the genetic makeup of the CS51 genome using the single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology of Pacific Biosciences. The results revealed that inoculation with CS51 induced endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellins (GAs), which significantly enhanced cucumber growth (root shoot length) and increased the heavy metal tolerance of cucumber plants. Moreover, genomic analysis revealed that the CS51 genome consisted of a circular chromosome of 5,364,174 base pairs with an average G+C content of 64.71%. There were around 4774 predicted protein-coding sequences (CDSs) in 4859 genes, 15 rRNA genes, and 67 tRNA genes. Around 3950 protein-coding genes with function prediction and 733 genes without function prediction were identified. Furthermore, functional analyses predicted that the CS51 genome could encode genes required for auxin biosynthesis, nitrate and nitrite ammonification, the phosphate-specific transport system, and the sulfate transport system, which are beneficial for plant growth promotion. The heavy metal resistance of CS51 was confirmed by the presence of genes responsible for cobalt-zinc-cadmium resistance, nickel transport, and copper homeostasis in the CS51 genome. The extrapolation of the curve showed that the core genome contained a minimum of 2122 genes (95% confidence interval = 2034.24 to 2080.215). Our findings indicated that the genome sequence of CS51 may be used as an eco-friendly bioresource to promote plant growth in heavy metal-contaminated areas.

Effect of Silicate and Phosphate Solubilizing Rhizobacterium Enterobacter ludwigii GAK2 on Oryza sativa L. under Cadmium Stress

Silicon and phosphorus are elements that are beneficial for plant growth. Despite the abundant availability of silicate and phosphate in the Earth's crust, crop nutritional requirements for silicon and phosphorus are normally met through the application of fertilizer. However, fertilizers are one of the major causes of heavy metal pollution. In our study, we aimed to assess silicate and phosphate solubilization by the bacteria Enterobacter ludwigii GAK2, in the presence and absence of phosphate [Ca₃(PO₄)₂] or silicate (Mg₂O₈Si₃), to counteract cadmium stress in rice (Oryza sativa L). Our results showed that the GAK2-treated rice plants, grown in soil amended with phosphate [Ca₃(PO₄)₂] or silicate (Mg₂O₈Si₃), had significantly reduced cadmium content, and enhanced plant growth promoting characteristics including fresh shoot and root weight, plant height, and chlorophyll content. These plants showed significant downregulation of the cadmium transporter gene, OsHMA2, and upregulation of the silicon carrier gene, OsLsi1. Moreover, jasmonic acid levels were significantly reduced in the GAK2-inoculated plants, and this was further supported by the downregulation of the jasmonic acid related gene, OsJAZ1. These results indicate that Enterobacter ludwigii GAK2 can be used as a silicon and phosphorus bio-fertilizer, which solubilizes insoluble silicate and phosphate, and mitigates heavy metal toxicity in crops.

GIBBERELLIN PRODUCING RHIZOBACTERIA Pseudomonas koreensis MU2 ENHANCE GROWTH OF LETTUCE (Lactuca sativa) AND CHINESE CABBAGE (Brassica rapa, chinensis)

Microbial biofertilizers are considered environmentally safe tool for the healthy production of a plant. Massive application of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture has resulted detrimental effect on nature and human health. In the current study, we isolated several strains of rhizoshpheric bacteria through screening from the diversed agricultural soil of Daegu, South Korea. The growth promoting ability of the isolated strains was checked on gibberellin-deficient rice dwarf mutant Waito-C, lettuce var. cheongchima and chinese cabbage var. wangmat. The strain having the higher ability to promote the Waito-c growth was selected and further investigation was done. The selected isolate was identified as Pseudomonas koreensis MU2 through 16s rDNA gene sequence analysis. The cultural filtrate analysis revealed that the isolate could produce endogenous phytohormone gibberellic acid (GA1 and GA3) and organic acids, such as citric acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. Pot experiment revealed that the inoculation of Pseudomonas koreensis MU2 significantly increased shoot length, root length, fresh biomass, and dry biomass of chinese cabbage and lettuce. These results suggest that the Pseudomonas koreensis MU2 might be the possible candidate for bio-fertilizer as a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in plant.

P3520Admission hyperglycemia is a predictor of mortality of acute heart failure: comparison between patients with and without diabetes mellitus

Background

Regardless of diabetes mellitus (DM), admission hyperglycemia is not uncommon in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). Although DM is a well-known predictor of mortality in AHF, the impacts of admission hyperglycemia on clinical outcomes in non-DM patients with AHF have been poorly studied. The aim of this study, therefore, was to compare the impact of admission hyperglycemia on long-term clinical outcomes in AHF patients with or without DM.

Methods

Among 5,625 AHF patients enrolled in a nationwide registry, a total of 5,541 patients were enrolled and divided into 2 groups; DM group (n=2,125, 70.4±11.4 years) vs. non-DM group (n=3,416, 67.3±16.0 years). Each group were further divided into 2 groups according to the presence of admission hyperglycemia (admission serum glucose level >200mg/dl); admission hyperglycemia (n=248) and no hyperglycemia (n=3,168) in non-DM; admission hyperglycemia (n=799) and no hyperglycemia (n=1,326) in DM. All-cause death and hospitalization due to HF (HHF) during 1-year follow-up were compared.

Results

Death was developed in 1,220 patients (22.2%) including 269 inhospital deaths (4.9%) during 1-year of follow-up. Death rate were significantly higher in DM than in non-DM group (24.8% vs 20.5%, p<0.001), however there was no difference in inhospital death (5.1% vs 4.7%, p=0.534). Both inhospital death (7.6% vs. 4.2%, p<0.001) and 1-year death (26.2% vs. 21.3%, p=0.001) were more frequent in AHF patients with hyperglycemia. On Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis, however, admission hyperglycemia was associated with significantly higher death (p<0.001 by log-rank test) and rehospitalization (p=0.006 by log-rank test) in non-DM group, but not in DM group. In non-DM group, admission hyperglycemia was an independent predictor of 1-year mortality (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.10–1.93, p=0.009).

Conclusion

DM was a significant predictor of long-term mortality in patients with AHF. Admission hyperglycemia was associated with both higher inhospital and 1-year mortality. The present study also demonstrated that admission hyperglycemia is an independent predictor of mortality in non-DM patients with AHF, but not in DM patients. In addition to the presence of DM, admission hyperglycemia would be a useful marker in the risk stratification of AHF, especially in non-DM patients.

P3453Gender difference in impact of ischemic heart disease on long-term outcome in patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction

Background

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a major underlying etiology in patients with heart failure (HF). Although the impact of IHD on HF is evolving, there is a lack of understanding of how IHD affects long-term clinical outcomes and uncertainty about the role of IHD in determining the risk of clinical outcomes by gender.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the gender difference in impact of IHD on long-term clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

Study data were obtained from the nationwide registry which is a prospective multicenter cohort and included patients who were hospitalized for HF composed of 3,200 patients. A total of 1,638 patients with HFrEF were classified into gender (women 704 and men 934). The primary outcome was all-cause death during follow-up and the composite clinical events of all-cause death and HF readmission during follow-up were also obtained. HF readmission was defined as re-hospitalization because of HF exacerbation.

Results

133 women (18.9%) were died and 168 men (18.0%) were died during follow-up (median 489 days; inter-quartile range, 162–947 days). As underlying cause of HF, IHD did not show significant difference between genders. Women with HFrEF combined with IHD had significantly lower cumulative survival rate than women without IHD at long-term follow-up (74.8% vs. 84.9%, Log Rank p=0.001, Figure 1). However, men with HFrEF combined with IHD had no significant difference in survival rate compared with men without IHD (79.3% vs. 83.8%, Log Rank p=0.067). After adjustment for confounding factors, Cox regression analysis showed that IHD had a 1.43-fold increased risk for all-cause mortality independently only in women. (odds ratio 1.43, 95% confidence interval 1.058–1.929, p=0.020). On the contrary to the death-free survival rates, there were significant differences in composite clinical events-free survival rates between patients with HFrEF combined with IHD and HFrEF without IHD in both genders.

Figure 1

Conclusions

IHD as predisposing cause of HF was an important risk factor for long-term mortality in women with HFrEF. Clinician need to aware of gender-based characteristics in patients with HF and should manage and monitor them appropriately and gender-specifically. Women with HF caused by IHD also should be treated more meticulously to avoid a poor prognosis.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

P3555Lower native T1, extracellular volume and T2 on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is related to more left ventricular reverse remodeling in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Introduction

Guideline-directed medical therapy can induce left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Some predictors for LVRR have been reported but, there were few studies about the relationship between cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) parameters and LVRR in NIDCM on optimal GDMT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed echocardiogram and CMR data of newly diagnosed 142 NIDCM patients (age: 57±16 years old, 71.8% male) in a single center from Jan 2012 to Dec 2017. NIDCM was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <45% and the ischemic etiology was excluded by CMR, coronary angiography or coronary CT or SPECT scan. LVRR was defined as improvement in LVEF ≥10% during follow-up period (median 403 days).

Results

Baseline LVEF and LV end diastolic dimension (LVEDD) were 27±8% and 64±8 mm. There were 87 patients (61.3%) of LVRR in our cohort. In LVRR group, native T1 value was significantly lower (1326±66 for LVRR vs 1369±72ms, p<0.001), extracellular volume (ECV) was significantly lower (28.3±3.6 for LVRR vs 32.4±4.4%, p<0.001), and T2 value was significantly lower (49.6±4.6 for LVRR vs 52.1±5.4ms, p=0.004) compared with non-LVRR group. ECV was an independent predictor for LVRR after adjusting current LVRR predictors such as age, sex, LVEF, LVEDD, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and QRS duration (Odd ratio 0.706, 95% confidence interval 0.616–0.809, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Lower native T1, ECV and T2 on CMR is related to higher incidence of LVRR in NIDCM. Further larger prospective study should be warranted to confirm the relationship between CMR parameters and LVRR in NIDCM.