bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time and Its Measure: Historical and Social Implications
Authors: Vigo Paolo , Frattolillo Andrea
Published: August 2023

Time and frequency are quantities that have seen a proliferation and diffusion of tools, unimaginable until a few decades ago, and whose application implications are multiplying in a digital society, now characterized by an absolute lack of temporal and spatial limits. Today’s world requires a perfect synchronism of human activities, both for the need to identify with certainty the moment of commercial transactions and to accurately describe biological phenomenologies, which affect the social life of individuals to the point of having repercussions on issues such as safety, production and manufacturing organization. In this regard, the recent award of the Nobel Prize for Medicine for the discovery of the gene capable of controlling our internal biological clock is significant. This paper describes the social implications connected to time measurements, analyzing some very original application effects, ranging from the typical cadences of production activities to sports applications, going so far as to highlight its apparent anomaly of adopting, unlike all other physical quantities, duodecimal and/or sexagesimal scales. Real time and perceived time can both converge and diverge, and this is almost never objectifiable, as it varies from individual to individual, according to individual experiences or sensitivities. This paper is a point of reflection attempting to understand how the chronology of major historical events influenced the organization of time as it is known today and how we arrived at actual measuring instruments so accurate and interconnected with the social sphere. The evolution of calendars and instruments for measuring relative time is described in terms of their specificity.
Matrix Effect of Properties of Au, ZnO and Eu2O3: Silica, Titania and Alumina Matrices
Authors: Díaz Carlos , Cifuentes-Vaca Olga , Valenzuela María Luisa
Published: August 2023

The composites Au/SiO2, Au/TiO2, Au/Al2O3, ZnO/TiO2, ZnO/TiO2, ZnO/Al2O3 and Eu2O3/SiO2, Eu2O3/TiO2 and Eu2O3/Al2O3 were prepared using a solid-state method. The effect of the polymer precursors was investigated using two precursor polymers, Chitosan and Poly(styrene-co-4vinylpyridine), (PS-co-4-PVP) in the M/MxLy•Chitosan//M’xO’y as well as M/MxLy•PS-co-4-PVP//M’xO’y with M’xO’y = SiO2, TiO2 and Al2O3. The effects on the particle size and morphology were observed. The new composites were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction, SEM-EDS mapping and HRTEM analysis. The distribution of the metallic nanoparticles as well as the metal oxide nanoparticles inside the matrices depend on the matrix. Marked optical and photocatalytic effects of the Au, ZnO and Eu2O3 inside the SiO2, TiO2 and Al2O3 matrices are expected. An experiment is in course.
Experimental Wear Analysis of Nano-Sized Titania Particles as Additives in Automotive Lubricants
Authors: Szabó Ádám István , Tóth Álmos Dávid , Abdallah Hebah , Hargitai Hajnalka
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the wear effects of nano-sized titania as a potential engine lubricant additive. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles have promising wear-reducing properties and significant tribological potential. In this article, titania nanoparticles were homogenized in Group III automotive oil at five different concentrations (0.1; 0.2 … 0.5 wt%). The nanodoped oil samples were tested on a linear oscillating tribometer with oil circulation. Based on the tribological results, titania nanoparticles increased friction by 20–32% but can reduce the wear area by up to 32%. According to the confocal microscopic examination, wear volume can be reduced by up to 57% with titania nanoparticles. Titania nanoparticles improved the repeatability of tribological measurements. A scanning electron microscopy examination of the wear track revealed that the characteristic wear of the tribological system was abrasive, but a significant amount of adhesive wear was also observed. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis found that the nanoparticles fill the deeper trenches of the wear. The worn surface uniformly contains TiO2 particles and the quantified normalized titanium concentration was between 0.56 and 0.62%.
Comparative Genomic Analyses of Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance in Citrobacter werkmanii, an Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen
Authors: Aguirre-Sánchez José R. , Quiñones Beatriz , Ortiz-Muñoz José A. , Prieto-Alvarado Rogelio , Vega-López Inés F. , Martínez-Urtaza Jaime , Lee Bertram G. , Chaidez Cristóbal
Published: August 2023

Citrobacter werkmanii is an emerging and opportunistic human pathogen found in developing countries and is a causative agent of wound, urinary tract, and blood infections. The present study conducted comparative genomic analyses of a C. werkmanii strain collection from diverse geographical locations and sources to identify the relevant virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes. Pangenome analyses divided the examined C. werkmanii strains into five distinct clades; the subsequent classification identified genes with functional roles in carbohydrate and general metabolism for the core genome and genes with a role in secretion, adherence, and the mobilome for the shell and cloud genomes. A maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree with a heatmap, showing the virulence and antimicrobial genes’ presence or absence, demonstrated the presence of genes with functional roles in secretion systems, adherence, enterobactin, and siderophore among the strains belonging to the different clades. C. werkmanii strains in clade V, predominantly from clinical sources, harbored genes implicated in type II and type Vb secretion systems as well as multidrug resistance to aminoglycoside, beta-lactamase, fluoroquinolone, phenicol, trimethoprim, macrolides, sulfonamide, and tetracycline. In summary, these comparative genomic analyses have demonstrated highly pathogenic and multidrug-resistant genetic profiles in C. werkmanii strains, indicating a virulence potential for this commensal and opportunistic human pathogen.
Native Pig Neutrophil Products: Insights into Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Fernández-De La Cruz Eric , Wessely-Szponder Joanna , Viñas Miguel , Vinuesa Teresa , Merlos Alexandra , Jorba Marta , Espinal Paula , Fusté Ester
Published: August 2023

Cationic antimicrobial peptides are molecules with potential applications for treating infections due to their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this work was to explore the antimicrobial activity and mechanisms of action of a porcine neutrophil cathelicidin mixture (MPPN). Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and experiments of both time–kill kinetics and effects on growth curves were performed. Planar black lipid bilayer conductance was measured to analyze the interaction of MPPN with lipid bilayers. Visualization of bacterial surfaces and membrane alterations was achieved using atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The effects on the activity of efflux pumps (EPs) were studied with an intracellular accumulation of acridine orange (AO) assay. In E. coli, MPPN behaves as a bactericide at high concentrations and as a bacteriostatic at lower concentrations. The bacteriostatic effect was also observed for slightly shorter periods in S. enterica. The mixture was not active on S. aureus. The increase in AO accumulation in the presence of MPPN indicates that, at least in E. coli, the mixture causes inhibition of the EP function. Observed and detected variable conductance events demonstrate a strong MPPN effect on lipid bilayers. Damage to the structure of treated E. coli indicates that MPPN induces alterations in the bacterial surface. The use of AMPs capable of inhibiting EP can be seen as a good tool to combat antimicrobial resistance since they could be used alone or in combination with other conventional antibiotics to which bacteria have become resistant.
Fungal Community Composition at the Last Remaining Wild Site of Yellow Early Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata ssp. ochroleuca)
Authors: Dove Andrea , Charters Michael D. , Campbell Matthew J. , Blake Hanna , Menon Manoj , Sarasan Viswambharan
Published: August 2023

The yellow early marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza incarnata ssp. ochroleuca) is a critically endangered terrestrial orchid in Britain. Previous attempts to translocate symbiotic seedlings to a site near the last remaining wild site demonstrated some success, with a 10% survival rate despite adverse weather conditions over a two-year period. However, to facilitate future reintroduction efforts or conservation translocations, a more comprehensive understanding of the fungal microbiome and abiotic soil characteristics at the final remaining wild site is required. Obtaining comprehensive information on both the fungal community and soil nutrient composition from wild sites has significant benefits and may prove critical for the success of future conservation translocations involving threatened orchids. This preliminary study, conducted at the last remaining wild site, revealed a significant correlation between the relative abundance of the orchid mycorrhizal fungal order Cantharellales and the concentrations of nitrate and phosphate in the soil. Another orchid mycorrhizal fungal group, Sebacinales, was found to be distributed extensively throughout the site. The composition of fungal communities across the entire site, orchid-hosting and non-orchid-hosting soils is discussed in relation to reinforcing the current population and preventing the extinction of this orchid.
Enhancing Water Treatment Performance of Porous Polysulfone Hollow Fiber Membranes through Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Casetta Jeanne , Pochat-Bohatier Céline , Cornu David , Bechelany Mikhael , Miele Philippe
Published: August 2023

Polysulfone (PSF) is one of the most used polymers for water treatment membranes, but its intrinsic hydrophobicity can be detrimental to the membranes’ performances. By modifying a membrane’s surface, it is possible to adapt its physicochemical properties and thus tune the membrane’s hydrophilicity or porosity, which can achieve improved permeability and antifouling efficiency. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) stands as a distinctive technology offering exceedingly even and uniform layers of coatings, like oxides that cover the surfaces of objects with three-dimensional (3D) shapes, porous structures, and particles. In the context of this study, the focus was on titanium dioxide (TiO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), and alumina (Al2O3), which were deposited on polysulfone hollow fiber (HF) membranes via ALD using TiCl4, diethyl zinc (DEZ), and trimethylamine (TMA), respectively, and H2O as precursors. The morphology and mechanical properties of membranes were changed without damaging their performances. The deposition was confirmed mainly by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). All depositions offered great performances with a maintained permeability and BSA retention and a 20 to 40° lower water contact angle (WCA) than the raw PSF HF membrane. The deposition of TiO2 offered the best results, showing an enhancement of 50% for the water permeability and 20% for the fouling resistance of the PSF HF membranes.
Tuning Benzylic C−H Functionalization of (Thio)xanthenes with Electrochemistry
Authors: Wang Changji , Yang Na , Li Chao , He Jian , Li Hongji
Published: August 2023

Here, we report a tunable electrochemical benzylic C−H functionalization of (thio)xanthenes with terminal alkynes and nitriles in the absence of any catalyst or external chemical oxidant. The benzylic C−H functionalization can be well controlled by varying the electrochemical conditions, affording the specific coupling products via C−C and C−N bond formation.
Pyrotechnic Delay Compositions Based on BaO2: Not as “Green” as Expected
Authors: Lysien Kinga , Szatan Klaudia , Szydlo Konrad , Polis Mateusz , Procek Marcin , Stolarczyk Agnieszka , Jarosz Tomasz
Published: August 2023

The aims of this study were to investigate the potential of using barium peroxide as an environmentally friendly oxidising agent, to evaluate the composition of the combustion products of the developed pyrotechnic delay compositions (PDCs) and to provide information about the impact of the utilised metallic fuel (Mg, Al, Fe or Cu) on the properties of those PDCs. The PDCs exhibited acceptable friction and impact sensitivity values. This allowed conducting further experiments, e.g., determining the linear combustion velocity of the PDCs as a function of oxygen balance (OB). Based on the composition of the post-combustion residues, determined by Raman spectroscopy and SEM-EDS, an initial mechanism for the combustion of the developed PDCs was proposed.
Multi-Functional Electrospun AgNO3/PVB and Its Ag NP/PVB Nanofiber Membrane
Authors: Yan Taohai , Cao Shengbin , Shi Yajing , Huang Luming , Ou Yang , Gong R. Hugh
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the fabrication of fiber membranes containing different concentrations of AgNO3 via the electrospinning technique. The AgNO3 present in the fibers is subsequently reduced to silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) through UV irradiation. The resulting nanofiber film is characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and evaluations of its anti-UV and anti-electromagnetic radiation properties. Experimental results demonstrate that increasing the AgNO3 content initially decreases and then increases the fiber diameter and fiber diameter deviation. Under UV light, the nanofibers fuse and bond, leading to an increase in the fiber diameter. AgNO3 is effectively reduced to Ag NPs after UV irradiation for more than 60 min, as confirmed by the characteristic diffraction peaks of Ag NPs in the XRD spectrum of the irradiated AgNO3/PVB fibers. The nanofiber film containing AgNO3 exhibits superior anti-UV performance compared to the film containing AgNO3-derived Ag NPs. The anti-electromagnetic radiation performances of the nanofiber films containing AgNO3 and AgNO3-derived Ag NPs are similar, but the nanofiber film containing AgNO3-derived Ag NPs exhibits higher performance at approximately 2.5 GHZ frequency. Additionally, at an AgNO3 concentration of less than 0.5 wt%, the anti-electromagnetic radiation performance is poor, and the shielding effect of the nanofiber film on medium- and low-frequency electromagnetic waves surpasses that on high-frequency waves. This study provides guidance for the preparation of polyvinyl butyral nanofibers, Ag NPs, and functional materials with anti-ultraviolet and anti-electromagnetic radiation properties.
Luminescent Papers with Asymmetric Complexes of Eu(III) and Tb(III) in Polymeric Matrices and Suggested Combinations for Color Tuning
Authors: Aguado Roberto J. , Gomes Beatriz O. , Durães Luisa , Valente Artur J. M.
Published: August 2023

Complexes of lanthanide ions, such as Eu(III) (red light emission) and Tb(III) (green light emission), with proper ligands can be highly luminescent and color-tunable, also attaining yellow and orange emission under UV radiation. The ligands employed in this work were poly(sodium acrylate), working as polymeric matrix, and 1,10-phenanthroline, taking advantage of its antenna effect. Possibilities of color display were further enhanced by incorporating a cationic polyfluorene with blue emission. This strategy allowed for obtaining cyan and magenta, besides the aforementioned colors. Uncoated cellulose paper was impregnated with the resulting luminescent inks, observing a strong hypsochromic shift in excitation wavelength upon drying. Hence, while a cheap UV-A lamp sufficed to reveal the polyfluorene’s blue emission, shorter wavelengths were necessary to visualize the emission due to lanthanide ions as well. The capacity to reveal, with UV-C radiation, a full-color image that remains invisible under natural light is undoubtedly useful for anti-counterfeiting applications. Furthermore, both lanthanide ion complexes and polyfluorenes were shown to have their luminescence quenched by Cu(II) ions and nitroarenes, respectively.
Isolation and Anticancer Progression Evaluation of the Chemical Constituents from Bridelia balansae Tutcher
Authors: Zhao Lihan , Xie Wen-Jian , Du Yin-Xiao , Xia Yi-Xuan , Liu Kang-Lun , Ku Chuen Fai , Ou Zihao , Wang Ming-Zhong , Zhang Hong-Jie
Published: August 2023

The dichloromethane extract of the roots of Bridelia balansae Tutcher (Phyllanthaceae) was found to show potential anticancer activity against HCT116 colorectal cancer cell. Our bioassay-guided phytochemical investigation of the roots of B. balansae led to the identification of 14 compounds including seven lignans (1–7), three phenylbenzene derivatives (8–10), two flavanone (11–12), and two triterpenoids (13–14). Among them, 4′-demethyl-4-deoxypodophyllotoxin (1) is the first aryltetralin lignan compound identified from this plant species. In addition, the stereochemistry of 1 was validated by X-ray crystallography for the first time, and its distinguished cytotoxic effect on HCT116 cells with an IC50 value at 20 nM was induced via an apoptosis induction mechanism. Compound 1 could also significantly decrease the migration rate of HCT116 cells, indicating its potential application against cancer metastasis. The western blot analysis showed that 1 has the potential to inhibit cell proliferation and metastasis. Treatment of 1 resulted in the downregulation of matrix metalloproteinases 2 (MMP2) and p-Akt, while p21 was upregulated. Collectively, the present study on the phytochemical and biological profile of B. balansae has determined the plant as a useful source to produce promising anticancer lead compounds.
Enhancement of Bottle Gourd Oil Activity via Optimized Self-Dispersing Lipid Formulations (SDLFs) to Mitigate Isoproterenol-Evoked Cardiac Toxicity in Rats via Modulating BNP, MMP2, and miRNA-21 and miRNA-23a Genes’ Expression
Authors: El-Mancy Shereen , Boshra Sylvia , Elnahas Osama , Fayez Sahar , Sheta Nermin
Published: August 2023

Bottle gourd (BG) oil (family Cucurbitaceae) has several pharmacological activities including a reduction of the hazard of cardiovascular and atherosclerosis conditions. This work aimed to develop and optimize self-dispersing lipid formulations (SDLFs) of BG oil by applying a full 32 factorial design. The formulation variables (oil concentration and surfactant mixture ratio) showed an obvious impact on the characters of the prepared BG-SDLFs including droplet size (DS), polydispersity index (PDI), emulsification time (ET), and transmission percentage (Tr%). The optimum BG-SDLF composed of 30% oil and Tween 80/Cremophor® RH40 (1:1) showed good emulsification characteristics and a better drug release profile compared with BG oil. In vivo study in isoproterenol-injected rats showed that BG oil and the optimized BG-SDLF improved cardiac function, by elevating the miRNA-23a gene expression level and decreasing miRNA-21 gene expression. They also caused the inhibition of the plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), N-terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP), cystatin c, galectin-3, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and cardiac troponin T (cTnT). Our study demonstrated that BG oil and the optimized BG-SDLF provided a cardioprotection against isoproterenol-induced cardiac toxicity with better results in groups treated with the optimized BG-SDLF.
Chitosan Enhances Low-Dosage Difenoconazole to Efficiently Control Leaf Spot Disease in Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Dai Yi , Liu Jiaqi , Su Yue , Zhang Qinghai
Published: August 2023

Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax is a popular clinical herb and nutritious health food. However, leaf spot disease caused by fungal pathogens frequently occurs and seriously influences the growth, quality, and yield of P. heterophylla. In this work, the field control roles of difenoconazole, chitosan, and their combination in the leaf spot disease in P. heterophylla and their effects on the disease resistance, photosynthetic capacity, medicinal quality, and root yield of P. heterophylla are investigated. The results manifest that 37% difenoconazole water-dispersible granule (WDG) with 5000-time + chitosan 500-time dilution liquid had a superior control capacity on leaf spot disease with the control effects of 91.17%~88.19% at 15~30 days after the last spraying, which significantly (p < 0.05) exceeded that of 37% difenoconazole WDG 3000-time dilution liquid and was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of 37% difenoconazole WDG 5000-time dilution liquid, chitosan 500-time dilution liquid, or chitosan 1000-time dilution liquid. Simultaneously, this combination could more effectively enhance the disease resistance, photosynthetic capacity, medicinal quality, and tuberous root yield of P. heterophylla compared to when these elements were applied alone, as well as effectively reduce difenoconazole application. This study emphasizes that chitosan combined with a low dosage of difenoconazole can be proposed as a green, efficient, and alternative formula for controlling leaf spot disease in P. heterophylla and enhancing its resistance, photosynthesis, quality, and yield.
LC-MS/MS Evaluation of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids Profile in Relation to Safety of Comfrey Roots and Leaves from Polish Sources
Authors: Kimel Katarzyna , Godlewska Sylwia , Gleńsk Michał , Gobis Katarzyna , Ośko Justyna , Grembecka Małgorzata , Krauze-Baranowska Mirosława
Published: August 2023

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale L.) has a long tradition of use in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. However, due to hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), the EMA restricts the use of comfrey root (CR) to external use only and for short periods of time. Recent studies indicate a low permeability of PAs across the skin, calling into question the safety of topical application of products containing comfrey preparations. The aim of our work was to develop and validate an HPLC method enabling the separation of isomeric PAs from comfrey and, on this basis, to assess the potential toxicity of CR and comfrey leaf (CL) obtained from various Polish sources. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of PAs via HPLC-MS/MS was performed in MRM mode. The results obtained confirmed a lower content of PAs in CL than in CR and showed a wide variation in the composition of PAs in CR, with a much more stable profile of PAs in CL. Factor analysis confirmed that CRs and CLs differ in PA content, which is influenced by the growth conditions and geographical origin. The determined concentrations of PAs prove that in some CRs available on the Polish herbal market, the content of PAs may exceed the daily dose considered safe.
Low-Temperature Emission Dynamics of Methylammonium Lead Bromide Hybrid Perovskite Thin Films at the Sub-Micrometer Scale
Authors: Baronnier Justine , Mahler Benoit , Dujardin Christophe , Houel Julien
Published: August 2023

We study the low-temperature (T = 4.7 K) emission dynamics of a thin film of methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr3), prepared via the anti-solvent method. Using intensity-dependent (over 5 decades) hyperspectral microscopy under quasi-resonant (532 nm) continuous wave excitation, we revealed spatial inhomogeneities in the thin film emission. This was drastically different at the band-edge (∼550 nm, sharp peaks) than in the emission tail (∼568 nm, continuum of emission). We are able to observe regions of the film at the micrometer scale where emission is dominated by excitons, in between regions of trap emission. Varying the density of absorbed photons by the MAPbBr3 thin films, two-color fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy unraveled the emission dynamics: a fast, resolution-limited (∼200 ps) monoexponential tangled with a stretched exponential decay. We associate the first to the relaxation of excitons and the latter to trap emission dynamics. The obtained stretching exponents can be interpreted as the result of a two-dimensional electron diffusion process: Förster resonant transfer mechanism. Furthermore, the non-vanishing fast monoexponential component even in the tail of the MAPbBr3 emission indicates the subsistence of localized excitons. Finally, we estimate the density of traps in MAPbBr3 thin films prepared using the anti-solvent method at n∼1017 cm−3.
Host Soluble Factors Cause Changes in Staphylococcus epidermidis Antibiotic Susceptibility and Biofilm Formation Ability
Authors: Oliveira Fernando , Gaio Vânia , Brás Susana , Oliveira Sofia , França Angela
Published: August 2023

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a major nosocomial pathogen with a remarkable ability to adhere to the surfaces of indwelling medical devices and form biofilms. Unlike other nosocomial pathogens, the interaction of S. epidermidis with host factors has not been the focus of substantial research. This study aimed to assess the alterations in the antibiotic susceptibility and biofilm formation ability of S. epidermidis in the presence of host serum factors. S. epidermidis strain RP62A was cultured in a laboratory culture medium with or without human serum/plasma, and changes in antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, and gene expression were evaluated. The data obtained revealed that exposure to host serum factors increased the susceptibility of S. epidermidis to glycopeptide antibiotics and was also detrimental to biofilm formation. Gene expression analysis revealed downregulation of both dltA and fmtC genes shortly after human serum/plasma exposure. The importance of transferrin-mediated iron sequestration as a host anti-biofilm strategy against S. epidermidis was also emphasized. We have demonstrated that serum factors play a pivotal role as part of the host’s anti-infective strategy against S. epidermidis infections, highlighting the importance of incorporating such factors during in vitro studies with this pathogen.
Critical Review of the Increasing Complexity of Access and Benefit-Sharing Policies of Genetic Resources for Genebank Curators and Plant Breeders–A Public and Private Sector Perspective
Authors: Ebert Andreas W. , Engels Johannes M. M. , Schafleitner Roland , Hintum Theo van , Mwila Godfrey
Published: August 2023

Plant breeders develop competitive, high-yielding, resistant crop varieties that can cope with the challenges of biotic stresses and tolerate abiotic stresses, resulting in nutritious food for consumers worldwide. To achieve this, plant breeders need continuous and easy access to plant genetic resources (PGR) for trait screening, to generate new diversity that can be built into newly improved varieties. International agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) and the Nagoya Protocol recognised the sovereign rights of countries over their genetic resources. Under the CBD/Nagoya Protocol, countries are free to establish specific national legislations regulating germplasm access and benefit-sharing to be negotiated bilaterally. Consequently, access to PGR became increasingly restricted and cumbersome, resulting in a decrease in germplasm exchange. The ITPGRFA attempted to ease this situation by establishing a globally harmonised multilateral system (MLS). Unfortunately, the MLS is (still) restricted to a limited number of food and forage crops, with very few vegetable crops. Easy and continuous access to genetic diversity combined with equitable and fair sharing of derived benefits is a prerequisite to breeding new varieties. Facilitated access contributes to sustainable crop production and food and nutrition security; therefore, access to and, consequently, use of PGRFA needs to be improved. Thus, the authors recommend, among others, expanding the scope of the ITPGRFA to include all PGRFA and making them and all related information accessible under a Standard Material Transfer Agreement (SMTA) combined, if necessary, with a subscription system or a seed sales tax. Such a transparent, functional and efficient system would erase legal uncertainties and minimise transaction costs for conservers, curators and users of genetic resources, thus aiding plant breeders to fulfil their mission.
Genome Survey and Chromosome-Level Draft Genome Assembly of Glycine max var. Dongfudou 3: Insights into Genome Characteristics and Protein Deficiencies
Authors: Duan Yajuan , Li Yue , Zhang Jing , Song Yongze , Jiang Yan , Tong Xiaohong , Bi Yingdong , Wang Shaodong , Wang Sui
Published: August 2023

Dongfudou 3 is a highly sought-after soybean variety due to its lack of beany flavor. To support molecular breeding efforts, we conducted a genomic survey using next-generation sequencing. We determined the genome size, complexity, and characteristics of Dongfudou 3. Furthermore, we constructed a chromosome-level draft genome and speculated on the molecular basis of protein deficiency in GmLOX1, GmLOX2, and GmLOX3. These findings set the stage for high-quality genome analysis using third-generation sequencing. The estimated genome size is approximately 1.07 Gb, with repetitive sequences accounting for 72.50%. The genome is homozygous and devoid of microbial contamination. The draft genome consists of 916.00 Mb anchored onto 20 chromosomes, with annotations of 46,446 genes and 77,391 transcripts, achieving Benchmarking Single-Copy Orthologue (BUSCO) completeness of 99.5% for genome completeness and 99.1% for annotation. Deletions and substitutions were identified in the three GmLox genes, and they also lack corresponding active proteins. Our proposed approach, involving k-mer analysis after filtering out organellar DNA sequences, is applicable to genome surveys of all plant species, allowing for accurate assessments of size and complexity. Moreover, the process of constructing chromosome-level draft genomes using closely related reference genomes offers cost-effective access to valuable information, maximizing data utilization.
Effects of Reduced Phosphate Fertilizer and Increased Trichoderma Application on the Growth, Yield, and Quality of Pepper
Authors: Duan Xiaoyu , Zou Chunlei , Jiang Yifan , Yu Xuejing , Ye Xueling
Published: August 2023

Phosphorus utilization by crop plants is often limited, thereby resulting in large accumulations of residual phosphorus fertilizer in the soil. Trichoderma fungi function as natural decomposition agents that can contribute to increasing decomposition and promoting nutrient absorption in plants. In this study, we developed a novel fertilizer application strategy that reduces phosphate fertilizer and increases Trichoderma and examined its effects on the growth, nutrient absorption, and fruit quality of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). We compared the efficacies of eight treatments: P100 = standard dose application of phosphorus fertilizer; P85 = 85% dose; P70 = 70% dose; P0 = no phosphorus fertilizer; and the TP100, TP85, TP70, and TP0 treatments, in which a Trichoderma mixture was added to the P100, P85, P70, and P0 treatments, respectively. The combined fertilizer application strategy stimulated plant growth, increased chlorophyll content, improved yield, and enhanced nutrient absorption. Additionally, the strategy improved pepper fruit quality by increasing the contents of soluble proteins, soluble sugars, vitamin C, capsaicin, and capsanthin. A comprehensive analysis indicated that the TP85 treatment was the optimal fertilization regime for pepper. This study provides a novel fertilizer application strategy for pepper that not only ensures good plant growth but also protects soil health.
The Bryophyte Flora of Vienna
Authors: Zechmeister Harald G. , Kropik Michaela
Published: August 2023

The bryophyte flora of Vienna is documented only in parts. Old finds often appeared in publications about Lower Austria; only one study addressed the bryophytes of the inner city. Here, we present a bryophyte flora of Vienna, including historical reports and the results of recent investigations. From 1998 to 2023, we recorded 329 bryophyte taxa in Viennese urban territory. Fifty-six of these were liverworts, and 273 were mosses. Sixty-seven taxa are new for Vienna. Forty-nine taxa, given in historical studies, could no longer be found. If we also count these, 378 taxa occurred in Vienna to date. Of the current occurring bryophytes, 67 species have an endangerment classification. Rich in bryophytes were the dry grasslands of the Lobau, the oxbow lakes of the Lobau and the Prater, and large parts of the Wienerwald. But flat roofs and inner-city areas also showed more than 100 species. Compared to other European cities, Vienna is decidedly species-rich and highly responsible for some species in Austria. Reasons for this are the extensive green spaces and the pronounced climatic gradient from the sub-oceanic west to the sub-continental east of Vienna. Awareness raising for bryophytes we recommend in addition to the existing biotope protection.
Heavy Metal Induced Oxidative Stress Mitigation and ROS Scavenging in Plants
Authors: Mansoor Sheikh , Ali Asif , Kour Navneet , Bornhorst Julia , AlHarbi Khadiga , Rinklebe Jörg , Abd El Moneim Diaa , Ahmad Parvaiz , Chung Yong Suk
Published: August 2023

Although trace elements are essential for life, environmental contamination due to metal accumulation and overuse in various sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, industry, and cosmetics, poses significant health concerns. Exposure of plants to heavy metals leads to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to their ability to change mitochondrial membrane permeability and restrict the action of ROS clearance enzymes in the cellular antioxidant system. The interaction of ROS with cellular membranes, heavy-metal-induced interactions directly or indirectly with different macromolecules, and signaling pathways leads to the accumulation of environmental pollutants and oxidative stress in exposed organisms. The heavy metal–ROS–cell signaling axis affects various pathological processes such as ATP depletion, excess ROS production, mitochondrial respiratory chain damage, decoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial death. This review focuses on discussing the toxic effects of different heavy metals on plants, with particular emphasis on oxidative stress, its consequences, and mitigation strategies.
Assessing the RP-LC-MS-Based Metabolic Profile of Hass Avocados Marketed in Europe from Different Geographical Origins (Peru, Chile, and Spain) over the Whole Season
Authors: Serrano-García Irene , Domínguez-García Joel , Hurtado-Fernández Elena , González-Fernández José Jorge , Hormaza José Ignacio , Beiro-Valenzuela María Gemma , Monasterio Romina , Pedreschi Romina , Olmo-García Lucía , Carrasco-Pancorbo Alegría
Published: August 2023

Spain dominates avocado production in Europe, with the Hass variety being the most prominent. Despite this, Spanish production satisfies less than 10% of the overall avocado demand in Europe. Consequently, the European avocado market heavily relies on imports from overseas, primarily sourced from Peru and Chile. Herein, a comprehensive characterization of the metabolic profile of Hass avocado fruits from Spain, Peru, and Chile, available in the European market throughout the year, was carried out. The determination of relevant substances was performed using high- and low-resolution RP-LC-MS. Remarkable quantitative differences regarding phenolic compounds, amino acids, and nucleosides were observed. Principal component analysis revealed a natural clustering of avocados according to geographical origin. Moreover, a specific metabolic pattern was established for each avocado-producing country using supervised partial least squares discriminant analysis. Spanish fruits exhibited high levels of coumaric acid malonyl-hexose II, coumaric acid hexose II, and ferulic acid hexose II, together with considerably low levels of pantothenic acid and uridine. Chilean avocado fruits presented high concentrations of abscisic acid, uridine, ferulic acid, succinic acid, and tryptophan. Fruits from Peru showed high concentrations of dihydroxybenzoic acid hexose, alongside very low levels of p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, coumaric acid malonyl-hexose I, and ferulic acid hexose II.
An In Vitro Evaluation and Network Pharmacology Analysis of Prospective Anti-Prostate Cancer Activity from Perilla frutescens
Authors: Garcia Patrick Jay B. , Huang Steven Kuan-Hua , De Castro-Cruz Kathlia A. , Leron Rhoda B. , Tsai Po-Wei
Published: August 2023

Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. is extensively cultivated in East Asia as a dietary vegetable, and nutraceuticals are reportedly rich in bioactive compounds, especially with anticancer activities. This study explored the in vitro cytotoxic effects of P. frutescens parts’ (stems, leaves, and seeds) extracts on prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and possible interactions of putative metabolites to related prostate cancer targets in silico. The ethanol extract of P. frutescens leaves was the most cytotoxic for the prostate cancer cells. From high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, rosmarinic acid was identified as the major metabolite in the leaf extracts. Network analysis revealed interactions from multiple affected targets and pathways of the metabolites. From gene ontology enrichment analysis, P. frutescens leaf metabolites could significantly affect 14 molecular functions and 12 biological processes in five cellular components. Four (4) KEGG pathways, including for prostate cancer, and six (6) Reactome pathways were shown to be significantly affected. The molecular simulation confirmed the interactions of relevant protein targets with key metabolites, including rosmarinic acid. This study could potentially lead to further exploration of P. frutescens leaves or their metabolites for prostate cancer treatment and prevention.
Hansen Solubility Parameters Applied to the Extraction of Phytochemicals
Authors: Novaes Fábio Junior Moreira , de Faria Daliane Cláudia , Ferraz Fabio Zamboni , de Aquino Neto Francisco Radler
Published: August 2023

In many analytical chemical procedures, organic solvents are required to favour a better global yield upon the separation, extraction, or isolation of the target phytochemical analyte. The selection of extraction solvents is generally based on the solubility difference between target analytes and the undesired matrix components, as well as the overall extraction procedure cost and safety. Hansen Solubility Parameters are typically used for this purpose. They are based on the product of three coordinated forces (hydrogen bonds, dispersion, and dipolar forces) calculated for any substance to predict the miscibility of a compound in a pure solvent, in a mixture of solvents, or in non-solvent compounds, saving time and costs on method development based on a scientific understanding of chemical composition and intermolecular interactions. This review summarises how Hansen Solubility Parameters have been incorporated into the classical and emerging (or greener) extraction techniques of phytochemicals as an alternative to trial-and-error approaches, avoiding impractical experimental conditions and resulting in, for example, saving resources and avoiding unnecessary solvent wasting.
Supplementing the Nuclear-Encoded PSII Subunit D1 Induces Dramatic Metabolic Reprogramming in Flag Leaves during Grain Filling in Rice
Authors: Sun Ai-Zhen , Chen Juan-Hua , Jin Xue-Qi , Li Han , Guo Fang-Qing
Published: August 2023

Our previous study has demonstrated that the nuclear-origin supplementation of the PSII core subunit D1 protein stimulates growth and increases grain yields in transgenic rice plants by enhancing photosynthetic efficiency. In this study, the underlying mechanisms have been explored regarding how the enhanced photosynthetic capacity affects metabolic activities in the transgenic plants of rice harboring the integrated transgene RbcSPTP-OspsbA cDNA, cloned from rice, under control of the AtHsfA2 promoter and N-terminal fused with the plastid-transit peptide sequence (PTP) cloned from the AtRbcS. Here, a comparative metabolomic analysis was performed using LC-MS in flag leaves of the transgenic rice plants during the grain-filling stage. Critically, the dramatic reduction in the quantities of nucleotides and certain free amino acids was detected, suggesting that the increased photosynthetic assimilation and grain yield in the transgenic plants correlates with the reduced contents of free nucleotides and the amino acids such as glutamine and glutamic acid, which are cellular nitrogen sources. These results suggest that enhanced photosynthesis needs consuming more free nucleotides and nitrogen sources to support the increase in biomass and yields, as exhibited in transgenic rice plants. Unexpectedly, dramatic changes were measured in the contents of flavonoids in the flag leaves, suggesting that a tight and coordinated relationship exists between increasing photosynthetic assimilation and flavonoid biosynthesis. Consistent with the enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, the substantial increase was measured in the content of starch, which is the primary product of the Calvin–Benson cycle, in the transgenic rice plants under field growth conditions.
Experimental Study on HMCVT Adaptive Control of Cotton Pickers
Authors: Chen Huajun , Cai Wenqing , Wang Meng , Ni Xiangdong , Zhao Yongqiang , Pan Wenlong , Lin Yuangang
Published: August 2023

Aiming at the stability of the output speed and the poor adaptability of the transmission system during the operation of a cotton picker, a control strategy of hydro-mechanical continuously variable transmission (HMCVT) for cotton pickers based on gray prediction and fuzzy PID is proposed. Firstly, the hardware and software of the existing hydraulic mechanical coupling transmission test-bed of cotton pickers are designed, and the HMCVT human-computer interaction measurement and control system is built by using LABVIEW 2020 software. Then, combined with the transmission theory, the control strategy and gray prediction model are designed. Finally, the continuity test, transmission efficiency test, and adaptive control verification test are carried out. The results show that as the input speed increases, the peak time of the pump motor output speed is prolonged, while the overall speed regulation process is smoother, and the output speed process of the HMCVT system is continuous. As the displacement ratio of the variable pump increases, the transmission efficiency of the hydraulic system increases accordingly, but the highest efficiency is around 0.8. At a working speed of 10 km/h, the transmission efficiency of the HMCVT system of the cotton picker is more than 80%, and the high efficiency of the mechanical system in the whole system makes up for the low efficiency of the hydraulic system, and the transmission efficiency of the cotton picker is the highest at 15–25 km/h. The speed under the adaptive control strategy is better, with good robustness to sudden torque changes and speed fluctuations in the range of ±0.0125% under external load conditions. This study provides a reference for future adaptive control of transmission output speed for heavy-duty vehicles and construction machinery.
Carbon Dioxide Prevents Oxygen Adsorption at Low-Temperature Oxidation Stage of Low-Rank Coal: Laboratory Study and Molecular Simulation
Authors: Cheng Gang , Wang Haiyan , Tan Bo , Fu Shuhui
Published: August 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is widely used in the prevention and control of spontaneous coal combustion. In this manuscript, three low-rank coals with different metamorphic degrees were selected as the research objects. The temperature-programmed experiments, in situ infrared cooling experiments, simulation of the competitive adsorption of CO2 and oxygen (O2) in coal pores, and simulation study of the CO2 inhibition of the coal oxygen composite reaction were used to obtain the role and effect of CO2 in preventing oxygen adsorption in coal at the low-temperature oxidation stage. It was concluded that CO2 can displace the O2 near the pore wall to physically prevent the adsorption of O2. Through the changing law of heating rate and a kinetics analysis, it was found that CO2 can increase its activation energy by 5.3–108.3% during the slow heating stage of coal and reduce its heat rate. At around 120 °C, coal loses the protective effect of CO2. From the changes in functional groups, it can be seen that when coal was cooled in the CO2 atmosphere, mainly pyrolysis and condensation reactions occurred due to the lack of O2. In addition, CO2 can also inhibit the chain reaction of the chemical adsorption of oxygen in coal. This work provides a theoretical basis for CO2 prevention and the control of spontaneous coal combustion.
Modeling of Oxidative Coupling of Methane for Manufacture of Olefins—Part I: CFD Simulations
Authors: Fontoura Tahyná B. , De Jesus Normando J. C. , Pinto José Carlos
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for describing the oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) carried out in fixed-bed reactors for olefin production. Initially, a single pellet model was developed and implemented to describe the heat and mass transfer within the pellet and between the gaseous and solid phases. Subsequently, sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the impact of pellet arrangement and feed conditions on the heat and mass transfer rates, subsequently affecting concentration and temperature profiles. As indicated by the simulations, a high ethylene content could be obtained with the increase in the CH4/O2 ratio, aligning well with previous experimental studies. Furthermore, it was observed that pellet arrangement can significantly affect the reactor performance. Additionally, the behavior of temperature and concentration in the gaseous and solid phases can be very different, such that pseudo-homogeneous modeling approaches should not be assumed a priori. Finally, the simulated temperature differences between the gaseous and solid phases were very substantial and above 100 °C, indicating the occurrence of catalyst auto-ignition behavior.
A Sewer Pipeline Defect Detection Method Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Wang Tong , Li Yuhang , Zhai Yidi , Wang Weihua , Huang Rongjie
Published: August 2023

To address the issues of strong subjectivity, low efficiency, and difficulty in on-site model deployment encountered in existing CCTV defect detection of pipelines, this article proposes an object detection model based on an improved YOLOv5s algorithm. Firstly, involution modules and GSConv simplified models are introduced into the backbone network and feature fusion network, respectively, to enhance the detection accuracy. Secondly, a CBAM attention mechanism is integrated to improve the detection accuracy of overlapping targets in complex backgrounds. Finally, knowledge distillation is performed on the improved model to further enhance its accuracy. Experimental results demonstrate that the improved YOLOv5s achieved an mAP@0.5 of 80.5%, which is a 2.4% increase over the baseline, and reduces the parameter and computation volume by 30.1% and 29.4%, respectively, with a detection speed of 75 FPS. This method offers good detection accuracy and robustness while ensuring real-time detection and can be employed in the on-site detection process of sewer pipeline defects.