Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Serine 31 Phosphorylation-Driven Regulation of AGPase Activity: Potential Implications for Enhanced Starch Yields in Crops

ADP-Glc pyrophosphorylase (AGPase), which catalyzes the transformation of ATP and glucose-1-phosphate (Glc-1-P) into adenosine diphosphate glucose (ADP-Glc), acts as a rate-limiting enzyme in crop starch biosynthesis. Prior research has hinted at the regulation of AGPase by phosphorylation in maize. However, the identification and functional implications of these sites remain to be elucidated. In this study, we identified the phosphorylation site (serine at the 31st position of the linear amino acid sequence) of the AGPase large subunit (Sh2) using iTRAQTM. Subsequently, to ascertain the impact of Sh2 phosphorylation on AGPase, we carried out site-directed mutations creating Sh2-S31A (serine residue replaced with alanine) to mimic dephosphorylation and Sh2-S31D (serine residue replaced with aspartic acid) or Sh2-S31E (serine residue replaced with glutamic acid) to mimic phosphorylation. Preliminary investigations were performed to determine Sh2 subcellular localization, its interaction with Bt2, and the resultant AGPase enzymatic activity. Our findings indicate that phosphorylation exerts no impact on the stability or localization of Sh2. Furthermore, none of these mutations at the S31 site of Sh2 seem to affect its interaction with Bt2 (smaller subunit). Intriguingly, all S31 mutations in Sh2 appear to enhance AGPase activity when co-transfected with Bt2, with Sh2-S31E demonstrating a substantial five-fold increase in AGPase activity compared to Sh2. These novel insights lay a foundational groundwork for targeted improvements in AGPase activity, thus potentially accelerating the production of ADP-Glc (the primary substrate for starch synthesis), promising implications for improved starch biosynthesis, and holding the potential to significantly impact agricultural practices.
Stratification and Mean Flow Effects on Diurnal Tidal Currents off Vancouver Island

Abstract A series of numerical experiments with a three-dimensional, baroclinic model were conducted to study the influences of density stratification and wind-driven currents on the K1 tide over the continental shelf off Vancouver Island. The region is one of anomalously large diurnal tidal currents due to the generation of coastally trapped waves at the entrance to Juan de Fuca Strait. Model results are compared with data obtained from a number of moorings deployed over the shelf, including a line extending for over 300 km in the alongshore direction. The results show that inclusion of stratification significantly improves the representation of K1 currents in the model, particularly with respect to the alongshore phase propagation of the clockwise and counterclockwise rotary components. With homogeneous water, the coastally trapped waves propagate relatively slowly and are dissipated before reaching Brooks Peninsula. In contrast, the ambient stratification permits coastally trapped motions to propagate .
Forecast of Hotel Overnights in the Autonomous Region of the Azores

This paper concentrates on the application of various time series methods in order to forecast the monthly overnights in Azorean hotels. The aim is to find out the degree to which the forecast of overnights segmented by country of origin, presents smaller errors when compared with the forecast of the total overnights in the Region. The appropriate forecasting method by a tourist’s country of origin, is also analyzed so that potential optimal combinations of separate forecasts can be found in order to forecast the total overnights in Azores.
Novel hub genes and regulatory network related to ferroptosis in tetralogy of Fallot

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of cell death mainly triggered by uncontrolled lipid peroxidation, and it could potentially have a significant impact on the development and progression of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Our project aims to identify and validate potential genes related to ferroptosis in TOF. We obtained sequencing data of TOF from the GEO database and ferroptosis-related genes from the ferroptosis database. We employed bioinformatics methods to analyze the differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and microRNAs between the normal control group and TOF group and identify DEmRNAs related to ferroptosis. Protein–protein interaction analysis was conducted to screen hub genes. Furthermore, a miRNA–mRNA–TF co-regulatory network was constructed to utilize prediction software. The expression of hub genes was further validated through quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). After conducting the differential gene analysis, we observed that in TOF, 41 upregulated mRNAs and three downregulated mRNAs associated with ferroptosis genes were found. Further Gene Ontology/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that these genes were primarily involved in molecular functions and biological processes related to chemical stress, oxidative stress, cellular response to starvation, response to nutrient levels, cellular response to external stimulus, and cellular response to extracellular stimulus. Furthermore, we constructed a miRNA–mRNA–TF co-regulatory network. qRT-PCR analysis of the right ventricular tissues from human cases showed an upregulation in the mRNA levels of KEAP1 and SQSTM1. Our bioinformatics analysis successfully identified 44 potential genes that are associated with ferroptosis in TOF. This finding significantly contributes to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of TOF. Moreover, these findings have the potential to open new avenues for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for the treatment of this condition.
Current Limitations of Hydrologic Modeling In B.C.: An Examination of the HSPF, TOPMODEL, UBCWM and DHSVM Hydrologic Simulation Models, B.C. Data Resources and Hydrologic-Wildfire Impact Modeling

This thesis examines current problems and limitations of hydrologic modeling in British Columbia with respect to operational forestry use and hydrologic-wildfire modeling. A comparative review of the HSPF, TOPMODEL, UBCWM and DHSVM hydrologic simulation models and the availability and limitations of B.C. data resources in relation to hydrologic modeling are provided. Also discussed are a review of hydrologic-wildfire impacts, criteria for the development of a hydrologicwildfire model and a description of an attempt to apply the DHSVM to a B.C. interior watershed. The model review indicates that none of the four hydrologic models are optimally suited for widespread operational use in B.C. forest management. This is due to limitations of the hydrologic models in addressing a wide range of forestry modeling goals as each model has been created for a specific purpose, in a specific locale. The data resources review indicates that many different agencies in B.C. collect data that could be used in hydrologic modeling. However, it appears that the most limiting factor of B.C. data resources, for hydrologic modeling purposes, is the sparseness of meteorological, snow and streamflow data on a spatially distributed basis. The attempt to apply the DHSVM to a B.C. interior watershed illustrates the importance of being prudent in matching hydrologic modeling goals to the available data and hydrologic model. This attempt also highlights the necessity of allowing ample time in a modeling project for data preparation and model calibration when using a hydrologic model for the first time. The review of hydrologic-wildfire impacts indicates that wildfire has the potential to create earlier and larger peakflows, higher than average soil moisture levels and deeper and earlier melting snow-packs in a forested watershed. A physically-based, distributed hydrologic model was determined to be the most optimal candidate for development into a hydrologic-wildfire model.
Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Embolic Stroke of Unknown Etiology and Implantable Loop Recorders—Further Insights of the TRACK AF Study on the Role of ECG and Echocardiography

Aims—Electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiographic left atrial (LA) parameters may be helpful to assess the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in embolic stroke of unknown etiology (ESUS) and could therefore guide intensity of ECG monitoring. Methods—1153 consecutive patients with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) were analyzed. An internal loop recorder (ILR) was implanted in 104 consecutive patients with ESUS. Multiple morphologic P-wave parameters in baseline 12-channel ECG and echocardiographic LA parameters were measured and analyzed in patients with and without ILR-detected AF. Using logistic regression, we evaluated the predictive value of several ECG parameters and LA dimensions on the occurrence of AF. Results—In 20 of 104 (19%) patients, AF was diagnosed by ILR during a mean monitoring time of 575 (IQR 470–580) days. Patients with AF were significantly older (72 (67–75) vs. 60 (52–72) years; p = 0.001) and premature atrial contractions (PAC) were more frequently observed (40% vs. 2%; p < 0.001) during baseline ECG. All morphologic P-wave parameters did not show a significant difference between groups. There was a non-significant trend towards a larger LA volume index (31 (24–36) vs. 29 (25–37) mL/m2; p = 0.09) in AF patients. Conclusions—Age and PAC are independently associated with incident AF in ESUS and could be used as markers for selecting patients that may benefit from more extensive rhythm monitoring or ILR implantation. In our consecutive cohort of patients with ESUS, neither morphological P-wave parameters nor LA size were predictive of AF.
A Study on Consumer Perception of NFT based on Brand Concept Map

As the digital economy and meta-universe continue to expand, there is a growing demand for research on Digital Collection. For companies seeking to achieve rapid growth and advance digital consumption, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of how consumers perceive Digital Collection in today’s digital age. Based on the introduction of brand concept maps, this study draws a map of the consumer perception structure of Digital Collection with Chinese consumers as the research object and provides corresponding suggestions for enterprises to carry out marketing activities using Digital Collection, which is guiding significance for the healthy and green development of the Digital Collection market development and promotion.
How Can the Digital Economy Promote the Integration of Rural Industries—Taking China as an Example

The rapid development of China’s digital economy has promoted the digital transformation of Chinese society and become a new driving force for China’s social development. Furthermore, increasing farmers’ income is the central task of China’s “three rural issues” project, and the integrated development of primary, secondary, and tertiary rural industries is an important way to revitalize rural industries and broaden farmers’ income channels, so it is very important to promote the integrated development of rural industries. In the context of the rapid development of China’s digital economy, it is of great significance to study how the digital economy promotes the integration of rural industries. Therefore, this study analyzed how China’s digital economy promotes the integration of rural industries by using the panel data and regression models of 30 provinces (municipalities and districts) in China from 2011 to 2021. The results show that (1) there is a significant positive relationship between the development level of the digital economy and the level of rural–industrial integration and that the development of the digital economy promotes the process of rural–industrial integration; (2) intermediary effect analysis shows that as the digital economy promotes rural–industrial integration, scientific and technological innovation levels and rural human capital are important intermediary channels; and (3) spatial analysis shows that the development of the digital economy can not only promote the integration of rural industries in the province but also have a positive spatial spillover effect on neighboring provinces. Therefore, it is necessary to create a good atmosphere for the development of the digital economy, constantly promote the development of the digital economy, pay attention to scientific and technological innovation and rural talent training, and promote the integration and coordinated development of the digital economy and rural industries between regions in order to improve the level of rural–industrial integration and contribute to the rural revitalization strategy.
Unlocking Colchicine’s Untapped Potential: A Paradigm Shift in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prevention

Simple Summary Liver cancer is a significant health challenge worldwide, often developing in individuals with pre-existing conditions like chronic hepatitis and fatty liver. This study delves into the possible benefits of colchicine, a medication traditionally used to treat gout, in reducing the risk of developing liver cancer. By examining extensive health data from the China Medical University Hospital in Taiwan, we compared liver cancer development in two groups: one that used colchicine and another that did not. Our findings reveal that colchicine users had a 19% reduced risk of developing liver cancer, a promising indication that requires further investigation. If these findings are substantiated via further research, colchicine could become a valuable tool in preventing liver cancer, especially for those with liver conditions, potentially saving numerous lives and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. This study underlines the importance of exploring new uses for existing medications and highlights the potential impact of colchicine on liver cancer prevention. This could lead to newer, cost-effective strategies to mitigate the risks and impacts of liver cancer, bringing hope to millions worldwide. Abstract Background: Liver cancer and notably hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), results in significantly high mortality rates worldwide. Chronic hepatitis and fatty liver, recognized precursors, underscore the imperative need for effective preventive strategies. This study explores colchicine, traditionally acknowledged for its anti-inflammatory properties and investigates its potential in liver cancer prevention. Methods: Utilizing the iHi Data Platform of China Medical University Hospital, Taiwan, this study analyzed two decades of medical data, incorporating 10,353 patients each in the Colchicine and Non-Colchicine cohorts, to investigate the association between colchicine use and liver cancer risk. Results: The study identified that colchicine users exhibited a 19% reduction in liver cancer risk, with a multivariable-adjusted odds ratio of 0.81 after accounting for confounding variables. Additionally, the influence of gender and comorbidities like diabetes mellitus on liver cancer risk was identified, corroborating the existing literature. A notable finding was that the prolonged use of colchicine was associated with improved outcomes, indicating a potential dose–response relationship. Conclusions: This study proposes a potential new role for colchicine in liver cancer prevention, extending beyond its established anti-inflammatory applications. While the findings are promising, further research is essential to validate these results. This research may serve as a foundation for future studies, aiming to further explore colchicine’s role via clinical trials and in-depth investigations, potentially impacting preventive strategies for liver cancer.
Complex seismic trace analysis

The conventional seismic trace can be viewed as the real component of a complex trace which can be uniquely calculated under usual conditions. The complex trace permits the unique separation of envelope amplitude and phase information and the calculation of instantaneous frequency. These and other quantities can be displayed in a color-encoded manner which helps an interpreter see their interrelationship and spatial changes. The significance of color patterns and their geological interpretation is illustrated by examples of seismic data from three areas.
The Impact of Drug Abuse and Delinquency on Educational Environment Security

Creating and maintaining a secure and supportive educational environment is essential for the success and well-being of university students. This study investigates the interplay between drug abuse, delinquency, sociocultural factors, and the security of the educational environment. Drawing upon a sample of 356 students from the Federal State-Funded Institution of Higher Education—Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), we employed a partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach to analyze the data. The findings indicate that sociocultural security significantly influences students' behavioral intentions, with a confirmed negative impact on the intention to commit delinquency (β = -0.461, p < 0.05). Additionally, student well-being demonstrates a significant negative relationship with the intention to use drugs (β = -0.583, p < 0.01) and the intention to commit delinquency (β = -0.714, p < 0.001). However, the impact of sociocultural security and well-being on the intention to use drugs was not confirmed (β = -0.731, p > 0.05). Furthermore, the study reveals that students' behavioral intentions significantly affect the security of the educational environment. The intention to use drugs and the intention to commit delinquency negatively impact the security of the educational environment (β = -0.635, p > 0.05; β = -0.660, p < 0.05, respectively). These findings contribute to the understanding of the complex dynamics that shape the educational environment in universities. The study highlights the importance of promoting sociocultural security and fostering student well-being to prevent negative behavioral intentions and maintain a secure learning environment. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2023-07-05-018 Full Text: PDF
Improved Performance of a Grid-Connected Inverter with Two PV Array Input under Different Environment Conditions using Adaptive Neuro Fis Based Control

Grid-connected inverters based on solar PV cells are becoming increasingly common. At times, the PV can be subjected to a certain environmental situation, such as varying irradiance or temperature. Present developments in gird-connected PV inverters do not have many reliable yields or reliability in this case. In this article, an improved control framework system is intended for two PV that are mismatched in various ways, resulting in a highly effective grid-connected solar inverter with THD under 1% for both voltage and current. The regulator employs a control scheme comprised of an ANFIS-based control system that works in tandem with the incremental conductance technique of MPPT. The outcomes are simulated and validated using MATLAB Simulink.
MiRNA and Exosomal miRNA as New Biomarkers Useful to Phenotyping Severe Asthma

Severe asthma (SA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Due to the extreme heterogeneity of symptoms, new biomarkers are currently needed. MiRNAs are non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In biological fluids, miRNAs are contained within exosomes, vesicles capable of giving miRNAs considerable stability and resistance to degradation by RNAses. The main function attributed to the exosomes is intercellular communication. The goal of our study was to analyze intracellular and exosomal miRNAs in order to demonstrate their potential use as non-invasive biomarkers of asthma by showing, in particular, their role in SA. We detected miRNAs by qRT-PCR in both serum and serum-derived-exosomes of asthmatic patients and healthy controls. The levels of almost all analyzed intracellular miRNAs (miR-21, miR-223, and let-7a) were greater in asthmatic patients vs. healthy control, except for miR-223. In detail, miR-21 was greater in SA, while let-7a increased in mild-to-moderate asthma. On the other hand, in exosomes, all analyzed miRNAs were higher in SA. This study identified a series of miRNAs involved in SA, highlighting their potential role in asthma development and progression. These results need validation on a larger cohort.
Post-COVID-19 Syndrome and Related Dysautonomia: Reduced Quality of Life, Increased Anxiety and Manifestation of Depressive Symptoms: Evidence from Greece

Background Post-COVID-19 syndrome affects a significant number of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals, even in asymptomatic cases causing several neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms and signs. Materials and Methods An online cross-sectional study with a convenience sample was conducted in Greece from November 2022 to January 2023. We measured the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with post-COVID-19 dysautonomia in terms of the quality of life with the EQ-5D-3L, and anxiety and depressive symptoms by employing Patient Health Questionnaire-4. Results The study population included 122 patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome. One out of four patients (27.8%) manifested post-COVID-19 dysautonomia, while the mean duration of COVID-19 symptoms was 11.6 months. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were worse after the post-COVID-19 syndrome (p<0.001 in both cases). A statistically significant reduction in quality of life was observed among patients after the post-COVID-19 syndrome (p<0.001 for both EQ-5D-3L index value and EQ-5D-3L VAS). Post-COVID-19 dysautonomia increased depression symptoms after developing the post-COVID-19 syndrome (p=0.02). We found a negative relationship between the duration of COVID-19 symptoms and the quality of life (p<0.001). Moreover, our results showed that depressive symptoms were more common among females after the post-COVID-19 syndrome (p=0.01). Also, the quality of life was lower among females than males (p=0.004 for EQ-5D-3L index value, and p=0.007 for EQ-5D-3L VAS). Conclusions Our results suggest that post-COVID-19 syndrome causes a tremendous impact on the patients’ quality of life and mental health. In addition, we found that the groups most psychologically affected were patients with post-COVID-19 dysautonomia, females, and patients with a longer duration of symptoms. Policy makers should assign priority rights to vulnerable groups in future psychiatric planning. Policy measures should focus on the mental health of post-COVID-19 patients who seem to be particularly vulnerable.
Analytical Model of Surface Flow on Hillslopes Based on the Zero Inertia Equations

AbstractComing from the zero inertia (ZI) equations, an analytical model to describe sheet flow phenomena with a special focus on rainfall runoff processes is developed. A slight modification of the ZI equations, which draws upon the concept of a momentum-representative cross-section of the moving water body, leads—after comprehensive mathematical calculus—to an analytical solution describing essentially one-dimensional, shallow overland flow. In a test series, the analytical ZI model is applied together with three numerical models, one based on the Saint-Venant equations, one on the kinematic wave equations, and another one on diffusion wave equations. The test application refers to a typical rainfall runoff situation, i.e., rather shallow overland flow on a hillslope as a consequence of excess rainfall. Contrary to the analytical model, the comparative analysis clearly shows the difficulties of the numerical solutions in terms of exactness and robustness when approaching typical shallow water depths. Th.