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A novel wheat-infecting polerovirus, tentatively named "wheat yellow dwarf virus" (WYDV), was identified from winter wheat in China using transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) combined with RT-PCR and RACE amplification. WYDV has a single-stranded RNA genome of 5,650 nucleotides (nt) and contains seven putative open reading frames (ORFs). WYDV was found to share the highest sequence identity with cereal yellow dwarf virus RPV (CYDV-RPV, genus Polerovirus), 71.1% for the nucleotide sequence of the whole genome, and 77.3% and 70.0% for the amino acid sequences of the coat protein (CP) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase protein (RdRp), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on the complete genome and CP and RdRp amino acid sequences showed that WYDV is most closely related to the cereal-infecting poleroviruses CYDV-RPV, CYDV-RPS, and barley yellow dwarf virus-GPV. These data suggest that WYDV, which is associated with a newly emerging yellow dwarf disease in wheat fields in central China, should be classified as a new member of the genus Polerovirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The phylogeny and evolution of Epimedium based on 45 plastomes were first studied systematically. • Four types of plastomes were recognized according to the variation of inverted repeat boundary. • A strong support for the sister relationship of sect. Macroceras and sect. Diphyllon was revealed. • The diversification of Epimedium was estimated in the early Pleistocene (∼2.11 Ma). • Long spur (large-flowered group) constituted the plesiomorphic state of Epimedium. • Disharmony existed between molecular phylogeny and traditional classification of sect. Diphyllon. Epimedium L., the largest herbaceous genus of Berberidaceae, is one of the most taxonomically difficult representatives. The classification and phylogenetic relationships within Epimedium are controversial and unresolved. For the first time, we systematically studied the phylogeny and evolution of Epimedium based on plastid genome (plastome) data for better understanding this enigmatic genus. We explored the molecular phylogeny, assessed the infrageneric classification, estimated the divergence times, and inferred the ancestral states for flower traits of Epimedium based on 45 plastomes from 32 species. The Epimedium plastome length ranged from 156,635 bp to 159,956 bp. Four types of plastome organization with different inverted repeat boundary changes were identified. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a strong support for the sister relationship of sect. Macroceras and sect. Diphyllon but did not provide a distinct route for petal evolution in sect. Diphyllon. Disharmony between phylogenetic relationships and traditional classification of sect. Diphyllon was observed. Results from divergence time analysis showed that Epimedium diverged in the early Pleistocene (~2.11 Ma, 95% HPD = 1.88–2.35 Ma). Ancestral character state reconstructions indicated transitions from long spur (large-flowered group) to other petal types (small-flowered group) in Epimedium. These findings provide new insights into the relationships among Epimedium species and pave the way for better elucidation of the classification and evolution of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspergillus flavus produces highly toxic and carcinogenic aflatoxins that cause severe economic losses and pose a serious threat to public health. Cinnamon essential oils (CEO) have recently attracted attention as promising alternative antifungal agents. In this study, the inhibition mechanism of CEO on A. flavus was investigated, and its application in the prevention of A. flavus in coix seeds was explored for the first time. The results showed that mycelial growth, spore germination, and aflatoxin synthesis of A. flavus were completely inhibited after treatment with 0.5 μL/mL of CEO. Morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes after CEO treatment were also analyzed to elucidate the inhibitory mechanism. Transcriptomic analysis showed that some genes involved in conidiophore development (flbA and abaA), ergosterol synthesis (CYP51 , Erg1 , Erg3 , Erg7 , Erg9 , Erg24 , and Erg25), aflatoxin biosynthesis (aflR , aflO , aflT , aflJ , aflW , and aflY), and oxidative stress (Pbs2 , Ste20 , CAT , atfB , mtfA , PacC , ppoC , and gprM) were significantly regulated. Moreover, A. flavus infection in coix seeds was effectively inhibited by 20.0 μL/g of CEO. This study shed important light on the processes underlying the antifungal mechanism of CEO and affirmed the possibility of using CEO as a green anti-aflatoxigenic agent in the preservation of coix seed. • The minimum inhibitory concentration of Cinnamon essential oil (CEO) against A. flavus is 0.5 μL/mL. • The mechanism of the anti-aflatoxigenic effects of CEO was clarified. • CEO treatment significantly inhibited aflatoxin synthesis of A. flavus. • CEO showed significant inhibitory effect on A. flavus infection in Coix seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Observational studies have suggested a correlation between alopecia areata (AA) and thyroid dysfunction (TD). However, the causal relationship between AA and TD remains uncertain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the causal relationship between these two conditions. Understanding the potential causal relationship between AA and TD is valuable for elucidating the pathogenesis of AA and for designing innovative methods to prevent and treat AA and its related complications. Methods: All data for this two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study were sourced from public databases. This study selected hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, subacute thyroiditis, and Graves' disease as exposure factors, with AA as the outcome variable. Data for hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, subacute thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and AA were obtained from related genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). Various MR analysis methods such as inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR‐Egger, and weighted median were utilized. Additionally, Cochrane's Q test was used to detect heterogeneity in MR results, and the MR‐Egger intercept test and MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR‐PRESSO) test were used to detect horizontal pleiotropy. A leave‐one‐out analysis was conducted to investigate the sensitivity of this association. Results: We found statistically significant genetic predictions of AA with hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and subacute thyroiditis (IVW OR = 1.4009815, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1210399–1.750829; p = 0.003030698, OR = 1.396101, 95% CI: 1.030134–1.89208; p = 0.03144273, OR = 0.732702, 95% CI: 0.604812–0.887634; p = 0.001483368). Furthermore, tests for pleiotropy showed no evidence of pleiotropy, enhancing the credibility of the study results. Finally, the leave‐one‐out test demonstrated the stability and robustness of this association. Conclusion: This study provides new evidence of a potential genetic link between thyroid issues and AA. By employing the two‐sample MR method to eliminate confounding factors and reverse causation, unbiased results were obtained, confirming a causal relationship between hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, subacute thyroiditis, and AA. This lays the foundation for further mechanistic studies and potential clinical applications. Future research should further explore the specific biological mechanisms between TD and the onset of AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Collection areas, processing methods, and storage conditions influenced fungal community. • Vinegar processed and low temperature decreased fungal co-occurrence network complexity. • Six potential toxigenic fungi were detected. Corydalis Rhizoma (CR, Yanhusuo in Chinese) has been widely used as an analgesic in herbal medicine and functional food. Cases of fungal and mycotoxin contamination in CR have been reported. In this study, the composition and diversity of fungal microbiome in CR samples from four herbal markets and two processing methods were investigated by DNA metabarcoding. Variations of the fungal microbiome in CR during cold and conventional storage were monitored. Results showed that Aspergillus was the dominant genus and saprotroph was the dominant trophic mode. Six potential toxigenic fungi, namely, Aspergillus fumigatus , Aspergillus ostianus , Aspergillus terreus , Penicillium citrinum , Penicillium oxalicum , and Trichothecium roseum , were detected. Differences in fungal composition and diversity among various groups based on collection areas and processing methods were also observed. Moreover, the relative abundance of dominant genera in CR samples stored at different temperatures was significantly different and changed with storage time. This study is the first to reveal the influence of collection areas, processing methods, and storage conditions on the fungal microbiome in CR, which was expected to provide a basis for control strategies of fungal contamination in the industrial chain of CR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-occurrence of fungi and mycotoxins in various foods has been frequently reported in many countries, posing a serious threat to the health and safety of consumers. In this study, the mycobiota in five types of commercial bee pollen samples from China were first revealed by DNA metabarcoding. Meanwhile, the content of total aflatoxins in each sample was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. The results demonstrated that Cladosporium (0.16 %–89.29 %) was the most prevalent genus in bee pollen, followed by Metschnikowia (0–81.12 %), unclassified genus in the phylum Ascomycota (0–81.13 %), Kodamaea (0–73.57 %), and Penicillium (0–36.13 %). Meanwhile, none of the assayed aflatoxins were determined in the 18 batches of bee pollen samples. In addition, the fungal diversity, community composition, and trophic mode varied significantly among five groups. This study provides comprehensive information for better understanding the fungal communities and aflatoxin residues in bee pollen from different floral origins in China. [Display omitted] • The mycobiota and aflatoxins in five types of bee pollen from China were firstly revealed. • Cladosporium, Metschnikowia, Kodamaea, Penicillium, and Alternaria were dominant genera. • Significant differences in fungal community were found among different groups. • Potential toxigenic fungus Penicillium paxilli were detected. • None of the samples had quantifiable values for the aflatoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report a novel wheat-infecting marafivirus, tentatively named "Triticum aestivum marafivirus" (TaMRV). The full-length genome sequence of TaMRV comprises 6,437 nucleotides, excluding the poly(A) tail. Pairwise sequence comparisons and phylogenetic analysis revealed that TaMRV may represent a novel species within the genus Marafivirus in the family Tymoviridae. We also observed a mass of isometric particles with a diameter of about 30 nm in ultrathin sections of infected wheat leaf tissue. In addition, the leafhopper Psammotettix alienus was identified as a vector for this virus. This is the first report of the occurrence of a wheat-infecting marafivirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequent occurrence of ochratoxins in food and herbs poses a considerable threat to consumer and animal health. Here, we generated a broad-specificity monoclonal antibody against three ochratoxins. Concentrations for 50% inhibition (IC 50) for OTA, OTB, and OTC were 0.37, 0.23, and 2.24 ng/mL, respectively. In the two matrices, the proposed indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ic-ELISA) exhibited a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.5 μg/kg for OTA and 1.0 μg/kg for OTB, respectively, whereas the cut-off levels of lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) for OTA and OTB were respectively determined to be 1 and 0.25 ng/mL. As for OTC, the LOD of ic-ELISA and cut-off concentration of LFIA were 15.5 μg/kg and 8 ng/mL for milkvetch root and 37.5 μg/kg and 16 ng/mL for ginger, respectively. The real sample detection results by ic-ELISA and LFIA methods were validated via LC-MS/MS analysis. Therefore, the developed immunoassays are useful and effective tools for high-throughput screening and rapid on-site determination of ochratoxins in complex matrices. [Display omitted] • A broad-specific monoclonal antibody against three ochratoxins was prepared. • The IC 50 values of the mAb were 0.37, 0.23, and 2.24 ng/mL for OTA, OTB, and OTC. • Two immunoassays were developed to detect ochratoxins in two medicinal and edible herbs. • OTA and OTB were detected in 20% of milkvetch root samples. • The amount of OTA in milkvetch root samples was as high as 205.3 μg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural transformation of Escherichia coli is a novel and recently developed system that has significance for genetic studies and the biological safety of genetic engineering. However, the mechanisms of transformation, including development of competence and DNA uptake, are not thoroughly understood. In this study, we demonstrated the effect of the general stress response regulator RpoS, which has been associated with E. coli transformation, on natural transformation performed in an 'open system'. We find that RpoS is required for natural transformation but not to artificial transformation and RpoS mainly affect transformation in the liquid culture prior to plating. In the liquid culture, RpoS over-expression promotes natural transformation in early exponential phase and static incubation accumulates RpoS and promotes transformation to a limited extent. These findings provide detailed understanding of RpoS function on natural transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Lycii Fructus (LF) is considered as a 'superfood' due to its health benefits and delicious tastes, which has gained popularity worldwide. However, LF is also a proper host for fungal growth due to its abundant nutrients. Fungal contamination seriously affects the quality and safety of LF and poses threats to consumer health. Methods and Results: In this study, a total of 15 LF samples were collected from five provinces in China, and were divided into five groups based on the collection areas. Fungal contamination in LF was investigated by targeting the internal transcribed spacer 2 region using Illumina Miseq PE300 platform, and the differences of fungal community in groups based on collection areas were compared. Results showed that the fungal contamination was detected in all the 15 LF samples. Ascomycota, Dothideomycetes, Pleosporales and Pleosporaceae were dominant at the phylum, class, order and family levels, respectively. At the genus level, Alternaria, Cladosporium and Fusarium were the three dominant genera. In all, 24 fungal species were identified. Among which, two species, namely Penicillium oxalicum and Trichothecium roseum, were potentially toxigenic. Conclusions: All 15 LF samples were detected with fungal contamination. The differences of fungal community in LF samples collected from different areas were observed. DNA metabarcoding was demonstrated as an efficient method to monitor the fungal contamination in LF. Significance and Impact of the Study: This work comprehensively reveals the fungal diversity and composition in LF and provides early warning for potential mycotoxin contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ophiopogonis Radix (Maidong), derived from the dried root tuber of Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker Gawl., has been widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases. However, Ophiopogonis Radix is often adulterated with some species because of morphological similarities. Adulterants circulating in herbal markets are a latent threat to the clinical safety and consumers' interest. We aimed to develop a nucleotide signature for identification of Ophiopogonis Radix and its Chinese patent medicines. A total of 255 ITS2 sequences representing 39 species and 4 varieties were used to develop a nucleotide signature of Ophiopogonis Radix. The nucleotide signature was used to investigate 17 commercial crude drugs and eight batches of Chinese patent medicines. A 69 bp nucleotide signature unique to Ophiopogonis Radix was found. The survey revealed that 2 of 17 crude drug samples were adulterants detected as Liriopes Radix (Shanmaidong). Fortunately, no adulterants were detected in the eight batches of Chinese patent medicines. The newly developed nucleotide signature could be efficiently applied to identify Ophiopogonis Radix and its Chinese patent medicines, aiding in the authentication, quality control, and supervision of processed products in herbal markets. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myristicae Semen (nutmeg) has been extensively used for a long time because of its pharmaceutical properties and edible values. However, nutmeg is susceptible to fungi and mycotoxin contamination under suitable conditions during growing or post-harvest, thereby posing considerable hazards to consumers and resulting in significant economic losses. In this study, the surface fungi of nutmegs collected from producing areas and commercial markets were investigated for the first time by targeting the internal transcribed spacer 2 region using an Illumina MiSeq PE250 platform. Fungal contaminations were detected in all 13 tested samples. Aspergillus was the most prevailing fungi at the genus level with the relative abundance of 4.37%–82.81%, followed by Xerochrysium (0.36%–55.18%), Xeromyces (0.87%–86.38%), Hyphopichia (0.06%–29.14%), and Alternaria (0.03%–52.28%). Meanwhile, 108 fungal taxa were identified at the species level with six potential mycotoxin-producing fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus , Penicillium steckii , and Penicillium capsulatum. The differences between two groups of fungal communities were monitored. In conclusion, amplicon sequencing features a wide application prospect for fungal community analysis in spices and herbs and provides an early warning for subsequent potential mycotoxin biosynthesis. • This is the first report on fungal contamination in nutmeg using high-throughput sequencing. • Six potential mycotoxin-producing fungi were detected. • The fungal communities in two nutmeg groups exhibited statistically significant difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassiae Semen (CS) has been widely used as roasted tea and traditional Chinese medicine for decades. However, CS is easily contaminated by fungi and mycotoxins during pre-harvest and post-harvest process, thus posing a potential threat to consumer health. In this study, we used the Illumina MiSeq PE300 platform and targeted the internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences to survey the occurrence of fungi in raw and roasted CS samples. Results showed the fungal contamination in all 12 test samples. Ascomycota was the prevailing fungus at the phylum level, with the relative abundance of 66.50%–99.42%. At the genus level, Aspergillus , Cladosporium , and Penicillium were the most dominant genera, accounting for 0.66%–85.51%, 0.20%–29.11%, and 0.11%–32.92% of the fungal reads, respectively. A total of 68 species were identified, among which six potential toxigenic fungi belonging to Aspergillus , Penicillium , Candida , and Schizophyllum genera were detected. Moreover, differences in fungal communities were observed in raw and roasted CS samples. In conclusion, amplicon sequencing is feasible for analyzing fungal communities in CS samples, which provides a new approach to investigate the fungal contamination in edible-medicinal herb, thereby ensuring food safety and drug efficacy. • Fungal contamination in medicinal and edible Cassiae Semen (CS) was analyzed based on high-throughput sequencing • Six potential toxigenic fungi belonging to Aspergillus , Penicillium , Candida , and Schizophyllum genera were detected • Differences in fungal communities were observed in raw and roasted CS samples [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium wushanense (Berberidaceae) is recorded as the source plant of Epimedii Wushanensis Folium in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. However, controversies exist on the classification of E. wushanense and its closely related species, namely, E. pseudowushanense, E. chlorandrum, E. mikinorii, E. ilicifolium, and E. borealiguizhouense. These species are often confused with one another because of their highly similar morphological characteristics. This confusion leads to misuse in the medicinal market threatening efficiency and safety. Here, we studied the plastid genomes of these Epimedium species. Results show that the plastid genomes of E. wushanense and its relative species are typical circular tetramerous structure, with lengths of 156,855–158,251 bp. A total of 112 genes were identified from the Epimedium plastid genomes, including 78 protein-coding, 30 tRNA, and 4 rRNA genes. A loss of rpl32 gene in E. chlorandrum was found for the first time in this study. The phylogenetic trees constructed indicated that E. wushanense can be distinguished from its closely related species. E. wushanense shows a closer relationship to species in ser. Dolichocerae. In conclusion, the use of plastid genomes contributes useful genetic information for identifying medicinally important species E. wushanense and provides new evidence for understanding phylogenetic relationships within the Epimedium genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine system for decades. Under proper humidity and temperature, ZSS is easily contaminated by fungi and mycotoxins during harvest, storage, and transport, thereby posing a considerable threat to consumer health. In this study, we first used the Illumina MiSeq PE250 platform and targeted the internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences to investigate the presence of fungi in moldy and normal ZSS samples collected from five producing areas in China. Results showed that all 14 samples tested were contaminated by fungi. Ascomycota was the dominant fungus at the phylum level, accounting for 64.36–99.74% of the fungal reads. At the genus level, Aspergillus, Candida, and Wallemia were the most predominant genera, with the relative abundances of 13.52–87.87%, 0.42–64.56%, and 0.06–34.31%, respectively. Meanwhile, 70 fungal taxa were identified at the species level. Among these taxa, three potential mycotoxin-producing fungi, namely, Aspergillusflavus, A. fumigatus, and Penicillium citrinum that account for 0.30–36.29%, 0.04–7.37%, and 0.01–0.80% of the fungal reads, respectively, were detected in all ZSS samples. Moreover, significant differences in fungal communities were observed in the moldy and normal ZSS samples. In conclusion, our results indicated that amplicon sequencing is feasible for the detection and analysis of the fungal community in the ZSS samples. This study used a new approach to survey the fungal contamination in herbal materials. This new approach can provide early warning for mycotoxin contamination in herbal materials, thereby ensuring drug efficacy and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Epimedium consists of approximately 50 species in China, and more than half of them possess medicinal properties. The high similarity of species' morphological characteristics complicates the identification accuracy, leading to potential risks in herbal efficacy and medical safety. In this study, we tested the applicability of four single loci, namely, rbcL, psbA-trnH, internal transcribed spacer (ITS), and ITS2, and their combinations as DNA barcodes to identify 37 Epimedium species on the basis of the analyses, including the success rates of PCR amplifications and sequencing, specific genetic divergence, distance-based method, and character-based method. Among them, character-based method showed the best applicability for identifying Epimedium species. As for the DNA barcodes, psbA-trnH showed the best performance among the four single loci with nine species being correctly differentiated. Moreover, psbA-trnH + ITS and psbA-trnH + ITS + rbcL exhibited the highest identification ability among all the multilocus combinations, and 17 species, of which 12 are medicinally used, could be efficiently discriminated. The DNA barcode data set developed in our study contributes valuable information to Chinese resources of Epimedium. It provides a new means for discrimination of the species within this medicinally important genus, thus guaranteeing correct and safe usage of Herba Epimedii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Zearalenone-14-Glucoside (Z14G) was found for the first time to induce intestinal nodular lymphatic hyperplasia in rats within 14 days oral administration, indicating an ideal model drug. • Z14G hydrolyzes to Zearalenone (ZEN) in the intestine exerts toxicity by altering gut microbial abundance (e.g., increased Helicobacter , and decreased Prevotella) and perturbing the gut lipid-immune axis. • Z14G is hydrolyzed to ZEN by Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides which promotes co-trophic proliferation of Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides. • Hyperproliferative Bacteroides leads to inactivation of lectins when ZEN enters the gut, resulting in abnormal homing of lymphocytes and eventually dysplasia of gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Zearalenone-14-glucoside (Z14G) is a modified mycotoxin that widely contaminates food across the world. Our preliminary experiment showed that Z14G degrades to zearalenone (ZEN) in the intestine exerting toxicity. Notably, oral administration of Z14G in rats induces intestinal nodular lymphatic hyperplasia. To investigate the mechanism of Z14G intestinal toxicity and how it differs from ZEN toxicity. We conducted a precise toxicology study on the intestine of rats exposed to Z14G and ZEN using multi-omics technology. Rats were exposed to ZEN (5 mg/kg), Z14G-L (5 mg/kg), Z14G-H (10 mg/kg), and pseudo germ free (PGF)-Z14G-H (10 mg/kg) for 14 days. Histopathological studies were performed on intestines from each group and compared. Metagenomic, metabolomic, and proteomic analyses were performed on rat feces, serum, and intestines, respectively. Histopathological studies showed that Z14G exposure resulted in dysplasia of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) compared to ZEN exposure. The elimination of gut microbes in the PGF-Z14G-H group alleviated or eliminated Z14G-induced intestinal toxicity and GALT dysplasia. Metagenomic analysis revealed that Z14G exposure significantly promoted the proliferation of Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides compared to ZEN. Metabolomic analysis showed that Z14G exposure significantly reduced bile acid, while proteomic analysis found that Z14G exposure significantly reduced the expression of C-type lectins compared to ZEN. Our experimental results and previous research suggest that Z14G is hydrolyzed to ZEN by Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides promoting their co-trophic proliferation. This leads to inactivation of lectins by hyperproliferative Bacteroides when ZEN caused intestinal involvement, resulting in abnormal lymphocyte homing and ultimately GALT dysplasia. It is noteworthy that Z14G is a promising model drug to establish rat models of intestinal nodular lymphatic hyperplasia (INLH), which is of great significance for studying the pathogenesis, drug screening and clinical application of INLH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to prepare a highly sensitive and specific zearalenone (ZEN) monoclonal antibody, which was then used to develop an indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ic‐ELISA) and a colloidal gold immunochromatographic assay (GICA). These techniques were used for the detection of Coicis Semen and related products (Coicis Semen flour, Yimigao, and Yishigao). Immunogens were synthesized by oxime active ester techniques and characterized via ultraviolet spectrophotometry. Immunogens were injected subcutaneously into the abdominal cavities and backs of mice. Using the prepared antibodies, we developed ic‐ELISA and GICA rapid detection methods, which were then applied for the rapid detection of ZEN and its analogues from Coicis Semen and related products. For ic‐ELISA, the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for ZEN, α‐zearalenol (α‐ZEL), β‐zearalenol (β‐ZEL), zearalanone (ZAN), α‐zearalanol (α‐ZAL), and β‐zearalanol (β‐ZAL) were determined to be 1.13, 1.69, 2.06, 0.66, 1.20, and 0.94 ng•mL−1, respectively. For GICA, the cutoff values of ZEN, α‐ZEL, β‐ZEL, α‐ZAL, and β‐ZAL on test strips were 0.5 ng•mL−1 in phosphate buffer saline (0.01 M, pH 7.4), while ZAN was found to be 0.25 ng•mL−1. Furthermore, the cutoff values of test strips were between 10 and 20 µg∙kg−1 in Coicis Semen and related products. The results of these two detection methods were in good agreement with results from liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. This study provides technical support for the preparation of broad‐specificity monoclonal antibodies against ZEN and lays the foundation for the simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins from food and herbal medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Applies bibliometric analysis in mycotoxin research. • Summarize the research progress of mycotoxin detection methods. • Emphasize the advantages, breakthroughs, and limitations of detection methods. • Analyze the trend and focus of the development of detection methods. Food safety is crucial for human health, and mycotoxins, produced by fungi, can contaminate food, posing a serious health threat. Understanding mycotoxin production, toxicity mechanisms, and accurate detection is essential for food safety. While many studies have explored these aspects, there is still room for improvement in detection methods for mycotoxins. Taking mycotoxins as an entry point, this paper systematically collected and analyzed mycotoxin-related literatures from mainstream databases by combining bibliometric analysis, revealing the development trend and research focuses in this field, confirming mycotoxin detection methods as the core of this review, and further discussing chromatography-based, spectrometry-based, immunoassay-based, biosensor-based, and other. Research advances and limitations of mycotoxin detection methods, such as high sensitivity versus cumbersome processing for chromatography, low cost for spectroscopy, and high specificity for immunoassays, were further discussed. Emerging technologies like immunoassays and biosensors show promise for rapid and portable detection. Challenges in sample preparation and matrix effects are also discussed. Meanwhile, by analyzing the development trend of mycotoxin detection methods, it is predicted that the future research focus will be mainly on the two aspects of highly sensitive and accurate detection and rapid and accurate on-site detection. This review aims to provide insights for the field's development, predict future trends in mycotoxin analysis, and enhance food safety and public health protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A colloidal gold test strip for rapid screening of imidacloprid residues in herbs was prepared. • The developed method was applied for screening of imidacloprid in 60 kinds of herbs. • The developed method is simple, rapid, accurate and low-cost. An imidacloprid colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip was developed in this work, and systematic analytical conditions were deeply investigated. The test strips were used for rapid screening of imidacloprid residues in Chinese herbal medicines. The performance of the colloidal gold test strips was investigated by using five selected Chinese herbal medicines (malt, Coix seed, lotus seed, dried ginger and honeysuckle). As a result, the developed imidacloprid colloidal gold immunochromatographic test strips could be used for rapid screening of imidacloprid residues in 60 kinds of different herbs (including 26 kinds of root/rhizome medicines, 20 kinds of seed/fruit/pericarp medicines, 11 kinds of flower/leaf/whole herb medicines, and 3 kinds of bark/aboveground issues of herb medicines), and the cut-off value was 50 μg/kg. The development of this method can achieve the goal of on-site, rapid and low-cost screening of imidacloprid residues in different herbs, which is of great significance for the quality assurance of herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PEI-modified HNTs-based hybrid silica monolith was prepared. • The monolith showed a large adsorption capacity of hydrophilic cefoperazone. • The monolith was used as a sorbent for spin tip solid-phase extraction. • The tip effectively purified sulbactam, cefoperazone and cefuroxime in whole blood. • The determination of the analytes was accurate, reproducible and sensitive. In this study, we proposed a novel method utilizing polyethyleneimine (PEI)-modified halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)-based hybrid silica monolithic spin tip to analyze hydrophilic β-lactam antibiotics and β-lactamases inhibitors in whole blood samples for the first time. HNTs were incorporated directly into the hybrid silica monolith via a sol-gel method, which improved the hydrophilicity of the matrix. The as-prepared monolith was further modified with PEI by glutaraldehyde coupling reaction. It was found that the PEI-modified HNTs-based hybrid silica monolith enabled a large adsorption capacity of cefoperazone at 35.7 mg g−1. The monolithic spin tip-based purification method greatly reduced the matrix effect of whole blood samples and had a detection limit as low as 0.1 − 0.2 ng mL−1. In addition, the spiked recoveries of sulbactam, cefuroxime, and cefoperazone in blank whole blood were in the range of 89.3–105.4 % for intra-day and 90.6–103.5 % for inter-day, with low relative standard deviations of 1.3–7.2 % and 4.9–10.5 %, respectively. This study introduces a new strategy for preparing nanoparticles incorporated in a hybrid silica monolith with a high adsorption capacity. Moreover, it offers a valuable tool to monitor sulbactam, cefoperazone, and cefuroxime in whole blood from pregnant women with the final aim of guiding their administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus (Wuweizi) is often adulterated with Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus (Nanwuweizi) in the herbal market. This adulteration is a threat to clinical treatment and safety. In this study, we aimed to develop a nucleotide signature for the identification of Wuweizi and its Chinese patent medicines based on the mini-DNA barcoding technique. We collected 49 samples to obtain internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequences and developed a 26-bp nucleotide signature (5′-CGCTTTGCGACGCTCCCCTCCCTCCC-3′) on the basis of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) site within the ITS2 region that is unique to Wuweizi. Then, using the nucleotide signature, we investigated 27 batches of commercial crude drug samples labeled as Wuweizi and eight batches of Chinese patent medicines containing Wuweizi. Results showed that eight commercial crude drug samples were adulterants and one of the Chinese patent medicines contained adulterants. The nucleotide signature can serve as an effective tool for identifying Wuweizi and its Chinese patent medicines and can thus be used to ensure clinical drug safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A versatile biomimetic strategy of PDA-polymerized layer achieved excellent interface compatibility. • UV-initiated molecularly imprinted technology fabricated sufficient specific sites on the surface of PVDF membrane. • Novel application of dMIM in complex herbal matric achieved superior selective pesticide removal efficiency and biosafety. The indiscriminate application and abuse of the broad-spectrum fungicide dimethomorph (DMM) not only causes serious residues on agricultural products, which indirectly endangers human health, but also directly harms aquatic organisms through the persistence of water pollution. In the present study, the integration of eco-friendly membrane technology and highly selective molecular imprinting technology was facilitated through the introduction of polydopamine (PDA) biomimetic technology, which promoted the elimination of DMM and held great significance for food safety and environmental protection. Herein, the fabrication process involved the initial preparation of PDA modification on the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane surface, followed by the modification of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) with DMM as a template molecule to obtain a specific adsorbed membrane material (PVDF@PDA@KH570@dualMIP membrane, dMIM) for DMM. The physical properties and chemical features of the developed dMIM were investigated using various characterization techniques, and the preparation parameters were optimized. Ultimately, the superior adsorption capacity (maximum capacity, 314 μg/cm2) and adsorption selectivity of dMIM has been successfully achieved, alongside excellent reusability (number of cycles, 5 times). Moreover, in terms of practical application, the prepared dMIM demonstrated remarkable efficacy in eliminating DMM, with removal efficiencies in tap water ranging from 74.43 % to 86.12 % for three residual concentrations, and 90.71 % – 95.67 % in Panax notoginseng aqueous extracts at three material-to-liquid ratios, while had little impact on the quality of the extracts. We believe that this strategy provides a new insight into the design of novel adsorption materials for the selective elimination of DMM in environmental water and complex food matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal teas (MT) were popular in Asian countries for its various effective components. However, Pb pollution poses a serious threat to MT consumption due to the irreversible effect on enzyme activity and neurodegenerative disease. Owing to its toxicity and matrix interference, a rapid screening method for Pb at trace level with high sensitivity and accuracy is urgent for MT consumers. Herein, a simple and ultra-sensitive AuNPs/MWCNTs-MB/DNA-GCE quadruplex biosensor was developed and investigated. Specifically, the monitoring technology of scanning electrochemical microscope was utilized to analyze the assembly and application process for screening key parameters in complex matrix, through in-situ characterization of the microstructure changes on stepwise modified sensors. According to the combined results of electrochemical test and Randles-Sevcik equation, the proposed sensor showed a wide linear range from 5.0 * 10−15 to 5.0 * 10−13 M with LOD of 0.9 fM. In addition, the optimized sensor exhibited an excellent selectivity under the inference of metals and medicinal components. The proposed biosensor was successfully implemented for the ultrasensitive monitoring Pb pollution in MT while its water infusions recoveries maintained within acceptable range (81–118 %, 82–129 %). In all, AuNPs/MWCNTs-MB/DNA-GCE provided a new insight into the design, optimization, application and mechanism analysis of sensor for reliable sensing in controlling MT pollution and consumption safety. • An AuNPs/MWCNTs-MB/DNA-GCE was developed with high sensitivity and antijamming capability. • Switching configuration was discussed by in-situ monitoring and theoretical calculations. • The reasons for good performance were analyzed by SECM, SEM, SWSV and XPS. • The detection limit of Pb2+ is as low as 0.90 fM (S/N = 3). • Trace Pb screening is significant for environment safety and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel multi-immunogen strategy was proposed for mAb against NNIs. • A broad-specificity mAb against 8 NNIs with different structure types was prepared. • Recognition mechanism of the broad-specificity mAb was studied by molecular docking. • A sensitive GNP-based immunoassay was developed for ginseng and tomato samples. Neonicotinoid insecticides (NNIs) are extensively used across the agricultural products and foods. In order to meet the rapid detection requirements, a novel broad-specificity monoclonal antibody against NNIs was developed for the first time using a multi-immunogen strategy. The antibody's high affinity and its ability to bind target molecules were verified by ic-ELISA. Furthermore, molecular docking was used to evaluate the pivotal forces affecting binding affinity and to determine binding sites. Subsequently, a highly sensitive gold nanoparticle-based immunochromatographic assay was established for the rapid detection of eight NNIs and the IC 50 values were 0.03–1.61 ng/mL. The limits of detection for ginseng and tomato ranged from 0.76 to 30.19 μg/kg and 0.87 to 31.57 μg/kg, respectively. The spiked recovery ranged from 72.04% to 120.74%, and the coefficient of variation were less than 9.0%. This study provides a new direction for the development of multiple NNIs residue immunoassays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Aflatoxins and toxic alkaloids were respectively detected in areca nut products. • A high estimated bioaccessibility increased cancer risk in gastric and oral phase. • 25.93 % of areca nut was contaminated with aflatoxins that could triple the MRLs. • No clear interactive effect existed between alkaloids and aflatoxin in areca nut. • Cytotoxicity and MOE risk posed threat for children consuming processed areca nut. Contemporarily, there has been a growing consumption rate of areca nut (AN) products worldwide, despite the fact that both fresh and processed AN contain various hazardous ingredients, including toxic alkaloids and carcinogenetic aflatoxins. However, there is a dearth of toxicity and potential cancer risk information regarding toxic alkaloids and aflatoxins via consuming AN products. The present study conducted a comprehensive assessment of the combined hazardous effects of AN alkaloids and aflatoxins towards human digestive system, by methods of HPLC analysis, cell study and in vitro digestive system study. The results revealed a synergetic effect of arecoline and aflatoxins was on human gingival normal fibroblast cell of HGF-1 and a proliferation effect on human tongue squamous carcinoma cell of CAL-27. Specifically, the residual arecoline was as high as 91.08 μg·ml−1 in oral phase and 72.41 μg·ml−1 in gastric phase, which could be an evidence of oral cancer. More importantly, 25.93 % of AN products were contaminated with aflatoxins and the maximum value was three times the MRLs. Under these circumstances, the cytotoxic and MOE values raised a considerable health concern in terms of malignancy risk for children that consume processed AN product, especially compared to scenarios that involve adults and/or fresh AN samples. This study would give rise to a better understanding of the hazards associated with AN alkaloids and aflatoxins towards digestive system, and thus to predict the potential carcinogenic risk of AN products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dimethomorph (DMM) is a widely used high-efficiency fungicide which poses unpredictable threats to the ecological environment and public health. It is significant to establish a sensitive and robust analytical method for DMM detection. Here, we fabricated a catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) - based immunofluorescence (IMF) biosensor by using single-strand DNA and DMM antibody co-modified gold nanoparticles (H 0 -Ab-Au) as anti-interference probes and DMM antigen coated 96-well plate as the immune recognition element and CHA reaction vessel. Parameters relevant to AuNP probes preparation and CHA reaction environment were optimized. After optimization, the LOD of 0.002 ng/mL was calculated, with a linear correlation in inverse proportion to DMM concentration ranging from 0.01 ng/mL to 50 ng/mL. In addition, the developed biosensor was successfully applied to a variety of complex matrix samples, with satisfactory recoveries over a range of 86.74%–118.60%. Moreover, the detection results of IMF biosensor have a good correlation with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Therefore, our proposed IMF biosensor exhibits ultra-high sensitivity and excellent specificity, as well as great potential for application to other hazards. [Display omitted] • A single-strand DNA and DMM antibody co-modified AuNP probe was constructed. • A dual signal amplification platform was accomplished by combining nanomaterials technology and CHA strategy. • Ultrasensitive fluorescent detection limit of DMM was estimated to be as low as 0.002 ng/mL. • The developed IMF biosensor achieved good specificity and excellent detection capabilities in multiple complex substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A flexible concentrated solar energy wireless transmission system was developed. • It uses the space sunlight to overcome intermittency of the solar energy application. • Optimal energy transmission modelling and experimental validation was conducted. • Maximum transmitter energy transmission efficiency of 52.0% was obtained experimentally. • Power/weight ratio of the system could be increased by 17.0% by comparing parallels. Solar energy in space is more intensive and continuous compared to that on the Earth, and thus, is encouraged by governments across the world to be utilized for human beings. The continuity of the space sunlight has a great potential to overcome the bottleneck of the variability and intermittency in time and space for ground-based solar energy applications. Space solar power station (SSPS) is known as intermedia that can harvest the space solar energy and transmit it wirelessly to the end-user. However, the current wireless energy transmission via microwave or laser suffers from low energy transmission efficiency because of excessive energy conversion processes. Wireless energy transmission via sunlight without any intermediate energy conversion process was proposed previously theoretically for high energy transmission efficiency, but it also lacks practicability due to heavyweight and inflexibility. Therefore, although promising, practical sunlight-based wireless energy transmission proposals have not ever been presented. Here, through component and structure optimizations in theoretical and experimental approaches, a novel and more practical concentrated solar energy wireless transmission system that transmits the harvested sunlight via lightweight optical fibers is proposed in this paper. It uses a Fresnel lens to collect concentrated solar energy and then, the utilized optical fiber can steer the collected energy to the collimator flexibly. At last, a parallel sunlight beam can be emitted from the collimator to the target end-user. Results show that the transmitter efficiency versus optical fiber length exhibited a linear relationship from both theoretical and experimental approaches. the cloud effect harmed the energy transmission. A maximum transmitter energy transmission efficiency of 52.0% could be attained experimentally. Compared with the performance in the no-cloud condition, the gained voltage could be declined by 37% ∼ 48%. The bending of the optical fiber seemed to not affect much on the energy transmission performance, which guarantees a flexible energy transmission. Besides, the power/weight ratio was increased by 17.0% compared to its counterpart. The innovation of this paper is to reduce the gap between theoretical and practical feasibilities for the proposed system. This paper experimentally demonstrates the feasibility of a wireless concentrated solar energy transmission technology, which promotes the application of SSPS and related aerospace applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A space sunlight energy wireless transmission prototype is established. • System coupling effect was investigated theoretically and experimentally. • Aspheric lenses are more proper to condense sunlight. • Optical fibre bending barely affects efficiency, showing flexible energy transmission. • Multiple engineering applications are identified to pursue carbon neutrality. Advancements in spacecraft formation and space solar power plant technologies promote wireless energy transmission among satellites and the Earth. Although microwave-based, laser-based, and sunlight-based wireless energy transmission technologies have been reported previously, none of them have been practically deployed because of major limitations. In this paper, a concentrated sunlight energy wireless transmission system (CSEWTS) using single plano-convex lenses to harvest space sunlight and a single corresponding optical fibre bundle (OFB) to realize flexible energy transmission is schematically developed and its prototype is established experimentally. This system utilizes sunlight as the transmission media to avoid intermediate energy conversion and where energy efficiency can be enhanced compared to microwave-based or laser-based energy wireless transmission. Furthermore, the OFB-based CSEWTS can lighten the mirror-based system, which was developed previously. Various effects of optical coupling, condenser outline in the energy receiver, smog, distance, and bending were experimentally or theoretically investigated. An optimized coupling incident angle into OFB of 18° was attained theoretically and validated experimentally where an improvement of 19.9% in system efficiency was acquired from a wrong angle to an optimal one. Besides, aspheric lenses were experimentally proved to be more appropriate to condense sunlight where a 16.5% − 19.5% enhancement was obtained. In addition, lens coating, condenser outline in the energy receiver, smog, and distance effects were also analyzed. Smog harms energy transmission which casts shadows on its space-Earth application. Energy transmission to a no-cloud area is the only probable option. The developed technologies can also be used in solar sail spacecraft, contributing to global carbon neutrality and clean aerospace flight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]