Search Results (69)

Food security constitutes a fundamental pillar of future sustainable development. A systematic evaluation of the impact of urban expansion on food security is critical to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly “Zero Hunger” (SDG 2). Drawing on bibliographic data from the Web of Science Core Collection, this study employs the bibliometrix package in R to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature on the “urban expansion–food security” nexus spanning from 1982 to 2024. The analysis focuses on knowledge production, collaborative structures, and thematic research trends. The results indicate the following: (1) The publication trajectory in this field exhibits a generally increasing trend with three distinct phases: an incubation period (1982–2000), a development phase (2001–2014), and a phase of rapid growth (2015–2024). Land Use Policy stands out as the most influential journal in the domain, with an average citation rate of 43.5 per article. (2) China and the United States are the leading contributors in terms of publication output, with 3491 and 1359 articles, respectively. However, their international collaboration rates remain relatively modest (0.19 and 0.35) and considerably lower than those observed for the United Kingdom (0.84) and Germany (0.76), suggesting significant potential for enhanced global research cooperation. (3) The major research hotspots cluster around four core areas: urban expansion and land use dynamics, agricultural systems and food security, environmental and climate change, and socio-economic and policy drivers. These focal areas reflect a high degree of interdisciplinary integration, particularly involving land system science, agroecology, and socio-economic studies. Collectively, the field has established a relatively robust academic network and coherent knowledge framework. Nonetheless, it still confronts several limitations, including geographical imbalances, fragmented research scales, and methodological heterogeneity. Future efforts should emphasize cross-regional, interdisciplinary, and multi-scalar integration to strengthen the systematic understanding of urban expansion–food security interactions, thereby informing global strategies for sustainable development. Full article

Plant parasitic nematodes cause huge economic losses to agriculture and forestry every year, and chemical insecticides destroy the ecological environment. Researching the mechanism by which small-molecule signaling substances regulate nematode behavior and development is important for developing environmentally friendly biological control agents. Nematode pheromones are essential chemicals signaling intraspecies and interspecies communication, regulating development, reproduction, and social behavior. Their structural diversity enables ecological adaptation and cross-kingdom interactions, influencing fungal predation and plant immunity. This review focuses on the classification, function, and regulatory mechanisms of nematode pheromones, interspecific signal transmission, and biosynthesis pathways. We pay special attention to their potential as environmentally friendly biological control agents as well as the challenges currently encountered in their application. Full article

Exosomes are essential components produced by all cell types, originating from the endosomal pathway through the invagination of the cell membrane. Their unique physicochemical characteristics are crucial for various commercial applications. Typically, exosomes range in size from 50 to 200 nm. Exosomes derived from plant cells are larger than their animal cell counterparts and demonstrate a broader therapeutic potential. This review explores the promising research opportunities associated with plant-derived exosomes, summarizing studies on their biogenesis, characterization, isolation methods, and therapeutic applications. It also emphasizes the importance of targeted drug delivery and provides insights into engineering plant-derived exosomes with various drugs. Additionally, highlights of plant-derived exosomes as natural nano-inducers that facilitate inter-kingdom communication and cross-kingdom regulatory interactions are also elucidated herein. Henceforth, this study culminates in a multidimensional insight for innovative therapeutic strategies and biotechnological advancements in plant-derived exosome research. Full article

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) is a key crop in Mediterranean agriculture, now increasingly threatened by Xylella fastidiosa subsp. Fastidiosa (Xff), the causal agent of Pierce’s disease. This study investigated: (1) the diversity of culturable fungal endophytes in the xylem sap of naturally Xff-infected grapevines, and (2) the interaction between Xff and the pathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum identified in the sap. The xylem sap was collected from Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Mallorca, Spain, and fungal communities were characterized using culture-dependent methods. Both beneficial fungi (e.g., Aureobasidium pullulans, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa) and pathogenic species (e.g., S. sclerotiorum, Cladosporium sp., Alternaria alternata, and the Phoma complex) were isolated from both Xff-positive and Xff-negative plants, indicating similar community profiles. Although limited by small sample size, these findings offer preliminary evidence of complex ecological interactions between Xff and the xylem-associated mycobiota, with potential implications for grapevine health and disease development under varying environmental and management conditions. Further experiments under controlled conditions revealed that grapevines co-inoculated with Xff and S. sclerotiorum showed increased disease severity, suggesting a synergistic interaction. These preliminary results highlight the complex interplay between Xff and the fungal endophytic microbiome, which may modulate grapevine susceptibility depending on environmental and management conditions. Full article

Recent studies highlight the potential of Saccharomyces species as probiotics due to their ability to modulate microbial interactions and reduce cariogenic activity, yet the underlying metabolic mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigates the cross-kingdom metabolic effects of Saccharomyces boulardii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the metabolic processes of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans using a metabolomics-based approach. Untargeted LC-MS/MS analysis was conducted to assess metabolites in a planktonic model, followed by metabolomic profiling and pathway analysis to identify key metabolic alterations. The results revealed that S. boulardii and S. cerevisiae demonstrated metabolic regulatory effects on S. mutans and C. albicans. Specifically, S. boulardii down-regulated 262 metabolites and up-regulated 168, while S. cerevisiae down-regulated 265 metabolites and up-regulated 168. Both yeast species down-regulated carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism in S. mutans and C. albicans, resulting in reduced biomolecule synthesis and a less acidic environment. S. boulardii and S. cerevisiae also up-regulated certain metabolic processes, including purine metabolism, suggesting a compensatory mechanism for nucleotide synthesis. Notably, dual regulatory effects were observed, where specific metabolites were simultaneously up-regulated and down-regulated, indicating complex metabolic crosstalk. These findings suggest that both S. boulardii and S. cerevisiae modulate microbial metabolism through a shared mechanism, offering potentials for dental caries prevention. Full article

Background/Objectives: Plants release extracellularly lipid bilayer-enclosed vesicles of nanometric size that can be retrieved in their fluids. Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) have mostly been involved in modulating host–pathogen interaction, making them a tool for cross-kingdom communication with a key role in plant immunity. In addition, PDEVs have demonstrated promising therapeutic features, not only in terms of intrinsic nutraceutical properties but also of active molecules’ delivery. Transgenic plants have been developed for a variety of purposes, i.e., to improve their functional properties like crops, but also to produce therapeutic molecules. However, it is unclear whether transgenes can end up in PDEVs, thus making them a vehicle for their cross-kingdom diffusion into the environment. Methods: Here, we investigated the association of transgenic DNA and RNA with PDEVs secreted by tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) engineered to express the neomycine phosphotransferase II (Npt-II) gene. PDEVs were isolated from leaf apoplastic fluid by ultracentrifugation and characterized for their morphology and size. The association of DNA and RNA was assessed by qRT-PCR and their immunomodulatory properties by assaying PDEVs-induced IL1β and IL10 on THP1 monocytes. Results: Npt-II RNA, but not DNA, could be amplified from PDEVs, whereas no differences were observed between wt and transgenic tobacco PDEVs in terms of immunomodulatory properties. Conclusions: Although a different behaviour by other types of RNAs or DNAs could still be possible, our findings indicate that in this model, PDEVs are not associated with transgenic DNA, but they can protect RNA, including transgenic RNA, from degradation, contributing to their cross-kingdom spreading. Full article

This review highlights the emerging role of cross-kingdom RNA interference in plant–microbe interactions, particularly the transfer of sRNAs from microbes to plants and vice versa, emphasizing the importance of this mechanism in both mutualistic and pathogenic contexts. As plants adapted to terrestrial life, they formed symbiotic relationships with microbes, essential for nutrient uptake and defense. Emerging evidence underscores sRNAs, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), as critical regulators of gene expression and immune responses in plant–microbe interactions. In mutualistic symbioses, such as mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria associations, sRNAs are hypothesized to regulate nutrient exchange and symbiotic stability. In pathogenic scenarios, microbes utilize sRNAs to undermine plant defenses, while plants employ strategies like host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) to counteract these threats. We further explore the emerging role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in sRNA transport, which is critical for facilitating interspecies communication in both pathogenic and mutualistic contexts. Although the potential of ckRNAi in mutualistic interactions is promising, the review highlights the need for further experimental validation to establish its true significance in these relationships. By synthesizing current research, this review highlights the intricate molecular dialogues mediated by sRNAs in plant–microbe interactions and identifies critical gaps, proposing future research directions aimed at harnessing these mechanisms for agricultural advancements. Full article

The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål, BPH) is a destructive pest of rice. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) regulate the defense mechanisms in rice and the adaptive strategies of BPHs. In rice, ncRNAs modulate key resistance pathways such as jasmonic acid biosynthesis, flavonoid production, and phenylpropanoid metabolism, which increases BPH resistance. In BPHs, ncRNAs regulate processes such as reproduction, metabolism, and wing polyphenism, which facilitate adaptation and virulence. Cross-kingdom interactions between rice and BPHs reveal the dynamic molecular interplay that underpins this pest–host relationship. These new insights into ncRNA functions will help improve innovative pest management strategies and equip rice varieties with enhanced BPH resistance. Full article

Dogs and humans have shared a complex relationship throughout history, with law serving as an important tool to manage dogs’ integration into human societies. As dogs increasingly become regarded as family members in Western countries, and as similar trends emerge globally, it is vital to understand how legislation balances the interests of stakeholders. Existing studies often focus on localised disputes and fragmented legal areas, limiting understanding of how dog-related laws interact and potentially conflict. We developed a conceptual framework to systematically analyse dog-related legislation, using the United Kingdom as a case study. Identified through a systematic search, laws were evaluated using content analysis based on the benefits provided to stakeholders, the regulated aspects of dog ownership, and whether benefits afforded to stakeholders occur in public or private spaces. We found that the greatest legislative focus was on dog welfare, dangerous dogs, and dog control, with little emphasis on areas like the breeding and sale of dogs. Eighty-two percent of laws that manage dogs in public space predominantly benefit the general public, often disadvantaging dogs and their owners, while 81% of laws that govern dogs within the home favour dogs. Owners consistently face legal obligations, but gain few benefits. These findings highlight misalignments between the law and dogs’ evolving societal roles, potentially contributing to public space conflicts and low compliance. The framework offers a tool for cross-country comparisons and assessing legislation for other species with similarly shifting roles. Full article

Fusarium musae is a pathogen belonging to the Fusarium fujikuroi species complex, isolated from both banana fruits and immunocompromised patients, therefore hypothesized to be a cross-kingdom pathogen. We aimed to characterize F. musae infection in plant and animal hosts to prove its cross-kingdom pathogenicity. Therefore, we developed two infection models, one in banana and one in Galleria mellonella larvae, as a human proxy for the investigation of cross-kingdom pathogenicity of F. musae, along with accurate disease indexes effective to differentiate infection degrees in animal and plant hosts. We tested a worldwide collection of F. musae strains isolated both from banana fruits and human patients, and we provided the first experimental proof of the ability of all strains of F. musae to cause significant disease in banana fruits, as well as in G. mellonella. Thereby, we confirmed that F. musae can be considered a cross-kingdom pathogen. We, thus, provide a solid basis and toolbox for the investigation of the host–pathogen interactions of F. musae with its hosts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Titanium dental implants, while highly successful, face challenges due to polymicrobial infections leading to peri-implantitis and implant failure. Biofilm formation on implant surfaces is the primary cause of these infections, with factors such as matrix production and cross-kingdom interactions contributing to the microbial accumulation of bacterial and fungal pathogens species. To combat this issue, naturally derived molecules have been reported to overcome the hurdle of antimicrobial resistance against the application of conventional antibiotics and antifungals. Methods: The present study aimed to employ the lichen-derived molecules, usnic acid (UA), to retard the development of biofilms of bacterial and fungal pathogens on the surface of titanium kept in the human artificial saliva (HAS) working as a growth-supporting, host-mimicking media. Results: The minimum inhibitory concentration of UA in HAS towards Candida albicans was >512 µg/mL, whereas against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans, it was determined to be 512 µg/mL. Whereas, in the standard growth media, the MIC value of UA towards S. mutans and S. aureus were 8 and 16 µg/mL; however, against C. albicans, it was 512 µg/mL. UA synergistically enhanced the efficacy of the antibiotics toward bacterial pathogens and the efficacy of antifungals against C. albicans. The antibiofilm results depict the fact that in the HAS, UA significantly reduced both mono-species of S. mutans, S. aureus, and C. albicans and mixed-species biofilm of C. albicans with S. mutans and S. aureus on the surface of the titanium. Conclusions: The present study showed that UA is a promising natural drug that can control oral polymicrobial disease as a result of the application of dental implants. Full article

Background: Due to technological advancements, the demand for easily accessible and convenient healthcare services is rising globally. Thus, telehealth is gaining momentum that was previously unheard of. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) actively embraces digital innovation in the healthcare industry through its ambitious Vision 2030 initiative. This study aimed to assess the perceived usability of telehealth for personalized healthcare among the KSA adult population in the post-COVID-19 era. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a convenience sample of 975 adults from the general population in KSA. A digital survey was used for data collection through Survey Monkey software. It contained two sections: personal and health data and the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ). The data was collected over three months (July–September 2024) and investigated using the multinomial logistic regression analysis. Results: This study showed that 59.8% of the participants have initiated telehealth service use before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the most frequently used services are the issuance of sick leave (30.6%), tele-prescription (29.0%), virtual consultation (20.0%), tele-mental health services (19.4%), telemonitoring (18.6), and tele-referral (18.2%). A high total telehealth usability score was observed among 60.4% of the participants: 72.7% perceive telehealth as highly useful, 76.4% perceive it as easy to use, 60.1% have high satisfaction and intention for future use, 57.4% perceive high interface quality, and 51.8% perceive a high interaction quality. Conversely, 45.8% perceive low reliability of the telehealth system. Multinomial logistic regression showed that low education (AOR = 2.04; 95% CI = 1.16–4.85) and using virtual consultation (AOR = 0.98; 95% CI = 0.38–0.99) were predictors of low telehealth usability. However, being female (AOR = 1.67; 95% CI = 1.27–2.55), being in higher education (AOR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.02–2.34), and living in the central KSA region (AOR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.10–2.23) were predictors of high telehealth usability. Working status, income, and presence of chronic disease were not statistically significant predictors. Conclusions: Telehealth services have been highly usable in KSA even before the COVID-19 pandemic, with commonly used asynchronous services. Many social, technological, and system-related factors could affect the user experience and system reliability. Hence, telehealth developments are recommended to overcome such barriers, with future initiatives focusing on the flexibility and convenience of telehealth systems. Full article

Recent advancements in the field of plant–pathogen interactions have spotlighted the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as pivotal mediators of cross-kingdom communication, offering new vistas for enhancing crop protection strategies. EVs are instrumental in the transport of small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) and other bioactive molecules across species boundaries, thus playing a critical role in the molecular warfare between plants and pathogens. This review elucidates the sophisticated mechanisms by which plants utilize EVs to dispatch sRNAs that silence pathogenic genes, fortifying defenses against microbial threats. Highlighting both eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems, this review delves into the biogenesis, isolation, and functional roles of EVs, illustrating their importance not only in fundamental biological processes but also in potential therapeutic applications. Recent studies have illuminated the significant role of EVs in facilitating communication between plants and pathogens, highlighting their potential in host-defense mechanisms. However, despite these advancements, challenges remain in the efficient isolation and characterization of plant-derived EVs. Overcoming these challenges is critical for fully harnessing their potential in developing next-generation crop protection strategies. This review proposes innovative strategies for utilizing RNA-based interventions delivered via EVs to bolster plant resilience against diseases. By integrating the latest scientific findings with practical applications in agriculture, this review aims to enhance the connection between fundamental plant biology and the development of innovative crop management technologies. Full article

Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization harms the diversity, structure, and function of the soil microbiome. Yet, whether such adverse effects can be repaired through reducing the subsequent N fertilization rate remains not completely clear so far. Here, using a long-term N-overfertilized wheat-maize cropping field, we assessed the effect of reducing various proportions of the subsequent N fertilization rate over six years on crop productivity, soil physicochemical and biochemical properties, and microbiome. Five treatments were employed in our field experiment: the farmers’ conventional N fertilization rate (zero reduction, as a control) and the reduction in the farmers’ N rate by 20%, 40%, 60%, and 100%. The results showed that moderate N reduction (20–40%) enhanced crop productivity and soil fertility but did not affect soil enzyme activity. Soil bacterial and fungal community diversity were insensitive to N fertilization reduction, whereas their community structures changed significantly, with more prominent alteration in the fungal community. Functional prediction indicated that average relative abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increased with N fertilization reduction but that of ectomycorrhizal fungi decreased. Moderate N reduction (20–40%) enhanced species interactions and, thus, provided a more complex cross-kingdom microbial co-occurrence network. Both bacterial and fungal community assembly were governed by stochastic processes, and this was not altered by N fertilization reduction. Overall, the response of the soil microbiome to N fertilization reduction was greatly dependent on the reduced N proportion. The findings obtained here shed light on the importance of optimal N fertilization rate in the intensively cultivated, high-input grain production system. Full article

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a cross-kingdom pathogen infecting both humans and wildlife, which poses a significant health risk to the public. Although MPXV attracts broad attention, there is a lack of adequate studies to elucidate pathogenic mechanisms associated with viral infections. In this study, a high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) approach was used to explore the transcriptional and metabolic responses of MPXV A23 protein to HEK293T cells. The protein–protein interactions and signaling pathways were conducted by GO and KEGG analyses. The localization of A23 protein in HEK293T cells was detected by immunofluorescence. A total of 648 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in cells by RNA-Seq, including 314 upregulated genes and 334 downregulated genes. Additionally, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) detected 115 cellular proteins that interact with the A23 proteins. Transcriptomic sequencing analysis revealed that transfection of MPXV A23 protein modulated genes primarily associated with cellular apoptosis and DNA damage repair. Proteomic analysis indicated that this protein primarily interacted with host ribosomal proteins and histones. Following the identification of the nuclear localization sequence RKKR within the A23 protein, a truncated mutant A23_ΔRKKR was constructed to investigate the subcellular localization of A23 protein. The wild-type A23 protein exhibits a significantly higher nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, exceeding 1.5, in contrast to the mutant A23_ΔRKKR, which has a ratio of approximately 1. Immunofluorescence assays showed that the A23 protein was mainly localized in the nucleus. The integration of transcriptomics and proteomics analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between MPXV A23 protein and the host. Our findings highlight the potential role of this enzyme in suppressing host antiviral immune responses and modulating host gene expression. Full article