Summary The paper describes an experiment to evaluate the effect of subtle changes to the amino acid composition of the growth medium on the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by a Trichoderma aureoviride isolate and the consequent inhibition of wood decay fungi. A synthetic medium was produced to represent the C:N ratio and major amino acid content of Scots pine sapwood. Changes in the amino acid content of the medium produced very significant differences in the VOC output produced by the Trichoderma isolate and in the levels of inhibition of the target wood decay fungi. Principal component analysis of the VOC profiles indicated that aldehyde and ketone components were associated with the greatest inhibition of the target fungi. The implications of the results for the use of Trichoderma isolates as biological control agents of decay fungi in wood are discussed.

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The global spread of COVID-19, subsequent stay-at-home requirements, spatial distancing measures, and long-term isolation present additional challenges for persons in recovery. Using an illustrative case from South Africa, we discuss COVID-19 related pornography use through the lens of relapse and substitute addiction. South Africa is the epicenter of the pandemic in Africa, and has issued an alcohol and cigarette ban. Historical examples suggest that responses to forced abstinence may include compliance and abstinence, but also seeking alternatives to the original addiction and substitution. Substitution of alternative activities/objects may provide similar appetitive effects to fill the void of the terminated addictive behavior, temporarily or in the long-term. While substitutes do not necessarily portend a relapse, coupled with isolation and reduced recovery support, they can potentiate relapse to the former or ‘new’ addictive behavior. Addiction professionals should be aware of the potential for such negative impacts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

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