bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Factors and Biomarkers Associated with Depressive Disorders in Older Patients Affected by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Does the Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)/RAGE (Receptor for AGEs) System Play Any Role?
Authors: Buoli Massimiliano , Dozio Elena , Caldiroli Lara , Armelloni Silvia , Vianello Elena , Corsi Romanelli Massimiliano , Castellano Giuseppe , Vettoretti Simone
Published: August 2024

Depressive disorders are highly prevalent among subjects suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of the present study is to evaluate clinical and biochemical factors associated with depressive disorders in a sample of older CKD patients, with a focus on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their soluble receptors (sRAGEs). A total of 115 older subjects affected by CKD (stages 3 to 5, not in dialysis) were selected for this study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of depressive disorders defined by a score ≥ 10 on the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The two groups were compared by independent sample t tests for continuous variables and χ2 tests for qualitative ones. Significant variables at univariate analyses were then inserted as predictors of a binary logistic regression model, with the presence or absence of depressive disorders as a dependent variable. The binary logistic regression model showed that patients with concomitant depressive disorders were more frequently of female gender (p < 0.01) and had lower MCP1 (p < 0.01) and AGE circulating levels (p < 0.01) than their counterparts. Depressive disorders in older CKD patients are more prevalent in women and seem to be inversely associated with systemic inflammation and circulating AGEs.
The Effects of Different Postharvest Drying Temperatures on the Volatile Flavor Components and Non-Volatile Metabolites of Morchella sextelata
Authors: Liu Tianhai , Wu Xiang , Long Weiwei , Xu Yingying , Yu Yang , Wang Haixia
Published: August 2024

True morels (Morchella spp.) are renowned for their aroma and taste, and hot air drying is widely used to extend the shelf life of harvested morels. However, the effects of different drying temperatures on volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites in the morel are poorly understood. Here, fresh morels (Morchella sextelata) were air-dried at low (45 °C, LT), medium (55 °C, MT), and high temperatures (65 °C, HT). The volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites were analyzed using GC-IMS and LC-MS/MS, respectively. The GC-IMS revealed that aldehydes, hydrocarbons, and pyrazines increased at greater temperatures, while acids, alcohols, and esters decreased. Random forest machine learning indicated that 1-hexanol and ethyl 3-methylbutanoate were indicative flavor compounds at LTs, while those at MTs and HTs were hexanal and valeraldehyde, respectively. Greater temperatures reduced acetic acid, an unpleasant sour flavor. The LC-MS/MS showed that the relative abundance of amino acids and nucleotides increased with the temperature, with the same trend in 5′-nucleotides and flavor amino acids. Sorbitol 6-phosphate was indicative of the non-volatile metabolites at LTs, while several amino acids were indicative at MTs and HTs. This study revealed the flavor and taste characteristics of morels dried at different temperatures, providing a theoretical reference for establishing a standardized postharvest morel drying process and maintaining morel quality.
Nitrous Oxide Treatment after Pollination Induces Ploidy Changes in Statice (Limonium sp.)
Authors: Cordoba-Sanchez Juana , Funnell Keith , Hedderley Duncan , Roskruge Nick , Morgan Ed
Published: August 2024

The production of statice (Limonium sp.) plants with higher ploidy through induction of whole-genome duplication (WGD) via the spindle disrupter nitrous oxide (N2O) was examined as a strategy to increase the germplasm diversity of the species. Furthermore, the impact of the resulting ploidy changes on the morphological features of the progeny was examined. Intraspecific crosses between diploid plants of Limonium sinuatum (L.) Mill and L. perezii (Stapf) Hubb. were conducted daily for seven consecutive days, with subsequent exposure to N2O. Within the resulting progeny, between 16% and 35% of plants were polyploid when N2O was applied between one and four days after pollination. A comparative analysis between diploid and tetraploid progeny was conducted, using a selection of 10 L. sinuatum (5 diploids and 5 tetraploids) and 7 L. perezii (4 diploids and 3 tetraploids) genotypes. The results revealed differences between tetraploids and their diploid counterparts for most of the evaluated characteristics. Tetraploid plants of L. sinuatum and L. perezii exhibited pollen grains 1.5 times larger in plan area; the leaves and main floral stem diameter were 1.2 and 1.5 times thicker for L. sinuatum and L. perezii, respectively, the guard cell length was 1.4 times greater for both species, while the stomatal density was 0.6 times lower for L. perezii and 0.8 for L. sinuatum. The leaf area and main floral stem wings were affected by the ploidy increase only for L. sinuatum. In this regard, tetraploid plants of L. sinuatum displayed leaves 1.8 times bigger and main floral steam wings 2.4 times wider in comparison to diploid plants. In conclusion, the production of tetraploid Limonium plants using N2O shortly after pollination creates new diversity for breeding. These findings underscore the potential for leveraging polyploidy as a strategy to enhance desirable traits in Limonium species.
A Case of Pseudomonas straminea Blood Stream Infection in an Elderly Woman with Cellulitis
Authors: Böhm Leopold , Schaller Marius Eberhardt , Balczun Carsten , Krüger Andreas , Schummel Timo , Ammon Alexander , Klein Niklas , Helbing Dario Lucas , Eming Rüdiger , Fuchs Frieder
Published: August 2024

Here, we report the simultaneous isolation of Pseudomonas straminea from blood cultures and from a skin ulcer in an elderly woman who suffered from atopic dermatitis and psoriasis and developed acute cellulitis of both arms requiring hospital treatment. To the best of our knowledge, P. straminea has not been previously reported to cause invasive infections in humans. This case highlights how chronic diseases and older age increase the susceptibility to bacterial infections with environmental bacteria of low virulence. Our study describes the microbiological identification of the blood culture isolate, including morpho-molecular characterization and virulence demonstration in a Galleria mellonella model.
Persons Experiencing Homelessness during Extreme Temperatures: Lessons for Promoting Socially Inclusive Adaptive Capacity
Authors: Cronley Courtney , Fackler Amanda , First Jennifer M. , Lee Sangwon , Tsouris Iris
Published: August 2024

Climate change and increasing extreme temperatures present unique challenges to persons experiencing homelessness (PEH), including heightened physical and psychological harm. While green and urban infrastructure has emerged as one possible mitigation strategy, homeless populations are rarely included in municipal disaster planning or infrastructure research. This study used in-depth interviews with PEH (N = 42) during the summers of 2022 and 2023. Questions were designed around phenomenological methods to explore the individuals’ firsthand descriptions of the lived experience of coping during extreme temperatures within a mid-size city in the Southeastern United States. Our findings highlight how social exclusion within the built environment reduces PEH’s adaptive capacity and increases the physical and psychological risks of extreme temperatures, namely through limiting and policing scarce resources and restricting the mobility of PEH. In contrast, public transit provided relief from extreme temperatures. Implications from our findings include the need for attention on inclusive green urban infrastructure, including increased placement and access to shade, public water, mixed-use daytime sheltering models, and the installation of lockers to increase capacity to maintain supplies and gear necessary for enduring extreme temperatures. Findings also highlight the challenges of designing inclusive green infrastructure and the importance of de-stigmatizing homelessness and building more housing and income support to increase adaptive capacity for an entire community in the context of a rapidly warming climate.
Gamification for Mental Health and Health Psychology: Insights at the First Quarter Mark of the 21st Century
Authors: Castellano-Tejedor Carmina , Cencerrado Andrés
Published: August 2024

The concept of gamification, originally rooted in digital media and game design, has increasingly emerged as a pivotal element in psychology and engagement strategies. Its application spans diverse domains within healthcare, offering innovative solutions to transform patient care through behavior modification and heightened engagement. This contemporary perspective explores theoretical frameworks and provides a critical interdisciplinary examination of current advancements in gamification for mental health and health psychology, identifying existing knowledge gaps and projecting future trends and research directions within these contexts. Based on this, concise criteria for designing, implementing, and evaluating gamification in healthcare, aligned with acknowledged best practices to promote ethical, fair, and trustworthy systems, are outlined, establishing a robust theoretical framework to design gamified interventions and scientifically evaluate their impact.
Associations between Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Timed Up and Go Test for Elderly Participants in Public Physical Activity Programs
Authors: Tavares Marília Salete , Menezes Sara Lucia Silveira de , Ribeiro Emanuel Davi Farias , Orsini Marco , Tuza Fábio Augusto d’Alegria , de Moura Paulo Henrique , Terra Dinah Vasconcelos , Moreno Adalgiza Mafra
Published: August 2024

Variables such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist/height ratio (WHtR) are used to assess cardiovascular risks associated with abdominal obesity. The Timed Up and Go (TTUG) test assesses mobility and the risk of falls, especially in the elderly and individuals with physical limitations. The objective was to correlate anthropometric indicators of cardiovascular risk (BMI, WC, WHtR) with performance on the TTUG test in elderly people who practice physical activity. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study, CAAE: 27116319.1.0000.8044. Active elderly participants in a public physical exercise program “Project 60 Up”, promoted by the Municipal Secretariat for the Elderly of the City of Niterói, RJ, Brazil, were evaluated. Elderly people of both sexes, with independent locomotion and preserved cognitive status, were included and those with visual, hearing, severe mobility difficulties or neurological sequelae and imbalances were excluded. Anthropometric data were collected: BMI, WC, WHtR, and the TTUG test was performed. Results: In the sample composed of 55 elderly people of both sexes, with an average age of 68 years, the means of the variables were: body weight (67.8 ± 12.7 kg), height (157.2 ± 8.4 cm), TTUG (10.3 ± 2 s), WC (93.3 ± 10.9 cm), WHtR (0.59), and BMI (27.4 ± 4.4). The correlations were between TTUG and age (r = −0.24, p = 0.69), TTUG and BMI (r = 0.111, p = 0.426), and WC and WHtR (r = 0.885, p < 0.000). Weak correlations were observed between TTUG and BMI and WC and WHtR, indicating that factors other than BMI and abdominal fat accumulation may have a greater influence on performance on the TTUG test. In this specific context of elderly people participating in a physical activity program, the results found may have been shaped by the very nature of the interventions carried out in the program, with factors such as muscular strength, flexibility and balance preserved and acquired through the practice of regular physical exercise. Despite the benefits of physical activity, managing weight and abdominal fat remains challenging for elderly individuals with high anthropometric measurements. Conclusions: Although many elderly people have anthropometric measurements above average levels, the results indicate that no negative influence on their performance on the TTUG was observed. However, the limitation of the sample size and the underrepresentation of elderly people ≥ 80 years and of men highlight the need for future studies with larger and more balanced samples to confirm these results.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Genetic Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Positive Enterobacterales Clinical Isolates in Central Poland
Authors: Brauncajs Małgorzata , Bielec Filip , Macieja Anna , Machnicki Piotr , Pastuszak-Lewandoska Dorota
Published: August 2024

The extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESβLs) are bacterial enzymes capable of hydrolyzing penicillins, cephalosporins, and aztreonam. The prevalence of ESβL is increasing among clinically significant microorganisms worldwide, drastically reducing the therapeutic management of infectious diseases. The study aimed to determine the drug susceptibility of ESβL-positive clinical isolates acquired from patients hospitalized in Lodz, central Poland, and analyze the prevalence of specific genes, determining acquired resistance in these bacteria. The samples of ESβL-positive clinical isolates were gathered in 2022 from medical microbiological laboratories in the city of Lodz, central Poland. The strains were subjected to biochemical identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing following EUCAST guidelines. The presence of studied genes (blaCTX-M, blaSHV, blaTEM, blaPER, blaVEB) was confirmed by PCR. Over 50% of studied isolates were resistant to gentamicin, cefepime, ceftazidime and ciprofloxacin. The most common ESβL gene was blaCTX-M. In most isolates, the resistance genes occurred simultaneously. The blaPER was not detected in any of the tested strains. ESβL-producing strains are largely susceptible to the currently available antibiotics. The observation of the coexistence of different genes in most clinical isolates is alarming.
A Systematic Review and Developmental Perspective on Origin of CMS Genes in Crops
Authors: Zhang Xuemei , Ding Zhengpin , Lou Hongbo , Han Rui , Ma Cunqiang , Yang Shengchao
Published: August 2024

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) arises from the incompatibility between the nucleus and cytoplasm as typical representatives of the chimeric structures in the mitochondrial genome (mitogenome), which has been extensively applied for hybrid seed production in various crops. The frequent occurrence of chimeric mitochondrial genes leading to CMS is consistent with the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) evolution. The sequence conservation resulting from faithfully maternal inheritance and the chimeric structure caused by frequent sequence recombination have been defined as two major features of the mitogenome. However, when and how these chimeric mitochondrial genes appear in the context of the highly conserved reproduction of mitochondria is an enigma. This review, therefore, presents the critical view of the research on CMS in plants to elucidate the mechanisms of this phenomenon. Generally, distant hybridization is the main mechanism to generate an original CMS source in natural populations and in breeding. Mitochondria and mitogenomes show pleomorphic and dynamic changes at key stages of the life cycle. The promitochondria in dry seeds develop into fully functioning mitochondria during seed imbibition, followed by massive mitochondria or mitogenome fusion and fission in the germination stage along with changes in the mtDNA structure and quantity. The mitogenome stability is controlled by nuclear loci, such as the nuclear gene Msh1. Its suppression leads to the rearrangement of mtDNA and the production of heritable CMS genes. An abundant recombination of mtDNA is also often found in distant hybrids and somatic/cybrid hybrids. Since mtDNA recombination is ubiquitous in distant hybridization, we put forward a hypothesis that the original CMS genes originated from mtDNA recombination during the germination of the hybrid seeds produced from distant hybridizations to solve the nucleo-cytoplasmic incompatibility resulting from the allogenic nuclear genome during seed germination.
H3K27me3 and EZH Are Involved in the Control of the Heat-Stress-Elicited Morphological Changes in Diatoms
Authors: Zarif Mhammad , Rousselot Ellyn , Jesus Bruno , Tirichine Leïla , Duc Céline
Published: August 2024

Marine water temperatures are increasing due to anthropogenic climate change, constituting a major threat to marine ecosystems. Diatoms are major marine primary producers, and as such, they are subjected to marine heat waves and rising ocean temperatures. Additionally, under low tide, diatoms are regularly exposed to high temperatures. However, physiological and epigenetic responses to long-term exposure to heat stress remain largely unknown in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. In this study, we investigated changes in cell morphology, photosynthesis, and H3K27me3 abundance (an epigenetic mark consisting of the tri-methylation of lysine 27 on histone H3) after moderate and elevated heat stresses. Mutants impaired in PtEZH—the enzyme depositing H3K27me3—presented reduced growth and moderate changes in their PSII quantum capacities. We observed shape changes for the three morphotypes of P. tricornutum (fusiform, oval, and triradiate) in response to heat stress. These changes were found to be under the control of PtEZH. Additionally, both moderate and elevated heat stresses modulated the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in photosynthesis. Finally, heat stress elicited a reduction of genome-wide H3K27me3 levels in the various morphotypes. Hence, we provided direct evidence of epigenetic control of the H3K27me3 mark in the responses of Phaeodactylum tricornutum to heat stress.
Immunological Profiling of CD8+ and CD8− NK Cell Subpopulations and Immune Checkpoint Alterations in Early-Onset Preeclampsia and Healthy Pregnancy
Authors: Szereday Laszlo , Nagy David U. , Vastag Fanni , Mezosi Livia , Meggyes Matyas
Published: August 2024

Despite the numerous studies on the clinical aspects of early-onset preeclampsia, our understanding of the immunological consequences of inadequate placenta development remains incomplete. The Th1-predominance characteristic of early-onset preeclampsia significantly impacts maternal immunotolerance, and the role of immune checkpoint molecules in these mechanisms is yet to be fully elucidated. Our study aims to fill these crucial knowledge gaps. A total of 34 pregnant women diagnosed with early-onset preeclampsia and 34 healthy pregnant women were enrolled in this study. A mononuclear cell fragment from the venous blood was separated and frozen. The CD8+ and CD8− NK cell subpopulations were identified and compared to their immune checkpoint molecule expressions using multicolor flow cytometry. The serum CD226 levels were measured by ELISA. Based on our measures, the frequency of the CD8− subpopulation was significantly higher than that of the CD8+ counterpart in both the NKdim and NKbright subsets. Significantly lower CD226 surface expressions were detected in the preeclamptic group compared to healthy women in all the investigated subpopulations. However, while no difference was observed in the level of the soluble CD226 molecule between the two groups, the CD112 and CD155 surface expressions were significantly different. Our study’s findings underscore the significant role of the CD8+ and CD8− NK subpopulations in the Th1-dominated immune environment. This deepens our understanding of early-onset preeclampsia and suggests that each subpopulation could contribute to the compensation mechanisms and the restoration of the immunological balance in this condition, a crucial step toward developing effective interventions.
Peroxiporins and Oxidative Stress: Promising Targets to Tackle Inflammation and Cancer
Authors: da Silva Inês V. , Mlinarić Monika , Lourenço Ana Rita , Pérez-Garcia Olivia , Čipak Gašparović Ana , Soveral Graça
Published: August 2024

Peroxiporins are a specialized subset of aquaporins, which are integral membrane proteins primarily known for facilitating water transport across cell membranes. In addition to the classical water transport function, peroxiporins have the unique capability to transport hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a reactive oxygen species involved in various cellular signaling pathways and regulation of oxidative stress responses. The regulation of H2O2 levels is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and peroxiporins play a significant role in this process by modulating its intracellular and extracellular concentrations. This ability to facilitate the passage of H2O2 positions peroxiporins as key players in redox biology and cellular signaling, with implications for understanding and treating various diseases linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. This review provides updated information on the physiological roles of peroxiporins and their implications in disease, emphasizing their potential as novel biomarkers and drug targets in conditions where they are dysregulated, such as inflammation and cancer.
The Inferential Binding Sites of GCGR for Small Molecules Using Protein Dynamic Conformations and Crystal Structures
Authors: Wang Mengru , Fu Xulei , Du Limin , Shi Fan , Huang Zichong , Yang Linlin
Published: August 2024

Glucagon receptor (GCGR) is a class B1 G-protein-coupled receptor that plays a crucial role in maintaining human blood glucose homeostasis and is a significant target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Currently, six small molecules (Bay 27-9955, MK-0893, MK-3577, LY2409021, PF-06291874, and LGD-6972) have been tested or are undergoing clinical trials, but only the binding site of MK-0893 has been resolved. To predict binding sites for other small molecules, we utilized both the crystal structure of the GCGR and MK-0893 complex and dynamic conformations. We docked five small molecules and selected the best conformation based on binding mode, docking score, and binding free energy. We performed MD simulations to verify the binding mode of the selected small molecules. Moreover, when selecting conformations, results of competitive binding were referred to. MD simulation indicated that Bay 27-9955 exhibits moderate binding stability in Pocket 3. MK-3577, LY2409021, and PF-06291874 exhibited highly stable binding to Pocket 2, consistent with experimental results. However, LY2409021 may also bind to Pocket 5. Additionally, LGD-6972 exhibited relatively stable binding in Pocket 5. We also conducted structural modifications of LGD-6972 based on the results of MD simulations and predicted its analogues’ bioavailability, providing a reference for the study of GCGR small molecules.
Highlights on Future Treatments of IPF: Clues and Pitfalls
Authors: Libra Alessandro , Sciacca Enrico , Muscato Giuseppe , Sambataro Gianluca , Spicuzza Lucia , Vancheri Carlo
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial lung disease characterized by irreversible scarring of lung tissue, leading to death. Despite recent advancements in understanding its pathophysiology, IPF remains elusive, and therapeutic options are limited and non-curative. This review aims to synthesize the latest research developments, focusing on the molecular mechanisms driving the disease and on the related emerging treatments. Unfortunately, several phase 2 studies showing promising preliminary results did not meet the primary endpoints in the subsequent phase 3, underlying the complexity of the disease and the need for new integrated endpoints. IPF remains a challenging condition with a complex interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and pathophysiological factors. Ongoing research into the molecular keystones of IPF is critical for the development of targeted therapies that could potentially stop the progression of the disease. Future directions include personalized medicine approaches, artificial intelligence integration, growth in genetic insights, and novel drug targets.
Copper(II) and Zinc(II) Complexes with Bacterial Prodigiosin Are Targeting Site III of Bovine Serum Albumin and Acting as DNA Minor Groove Binders
Authors: Pantelic Lena , Skaro Bogojevic Sanja , Andrejević Tina P. , Pantović Bojana V. , Marković Violeta R. , Ašanin Darko P. , Milanović Žiko , Ilic-Tomic Tatjana , Nikodinovic-Runic Jasmina , Glišić Biljana Đ. , Lazic Jelena
Published: August 2024

The negative environmental and social impacts of food waste accumulation can be mitigated by utilizing bio-refineries’ approach where food waste is revalorized into high-value products, such as prodigiosin (PG), using microbial bioprocesses. The diverse biological activities of PG position it as a promising compound, but its high production cost and promiscuous bioactivity hinder its wide application. Metal ions can modulate the electronic properties of organic molecules, leading to novel mechanisms of action and increased target potency, while metal complex formation can improve the stability, solubility and bioavailability of the parent compound. The objectives of this study were optimizing PG production through bacterial fermentation using food waste, allowing good quantities of the pure natural product for further synthesizing and evaluating copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes with it. Their antimicrobial and anticancer activities were assessed, and their binding affinity toward biologically important molecules, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and DNA was investigated by fluorescence emission spectroscopy and molecular docking. The yield of 83.1 mg/L of pure PG was obtained when processed meat waste at 18 g/L was utilized as the sole fermentation substrate. The obtained complexes CuPG and ZnPG showed high binding affinity towards target site III of BSA, and molecular docking simulations highlighted the affinity of the compounds for DNA minor grooves.
The Vasopressin Receptor Antagonist Tolvaptan Counteracts Tumor Growth in a Murine Xenograft Model of Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Naldi Laura , Fibbi Benedetta , Polvani Simone , Cirillo Chiara , Pasella Francesca , Bartolini Francesca , Romano Francesca , Fanelli Alessandra , Peri Alessandro , Marroncini Giada
Published: August 2024

We have previously demonstrated that the vasopressin type 2 receptor (AVPR2) antagonist tolvaptan reduces cell proliferation and invasion and triggers apoptosis in different human cancer cell lines. To study this effect in vivo, a xenograft model of small cell lung cancer was developed in Fox1nu/nu nude mice through the subcutaneous inoculation of H69 cells, which express AVPR2. One group of mice (n = 5) was treated with tolvaptan for 60 days, whereas one group (n = 5) served as the control. A reduced growth was observed in the tolvaptan group in which the mean tumor volume was significantly smaller on day 60 compared to the control group. In the latter group, a significantly lower survival was observed. The analysis of excised tumors revealed that tolvaptan effectively inhibited the cAMP/PKA and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. The expression of the proliferative marker proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was significantly lower in tumors excised from tolvaptan-treated mice, whereas the expression levels of the apoptotic marker caspase-3 were higher than those in control animals. Furthermore, tumor vascularization was significantly lower in the tolvaptan group. Overall, these findings suggest that tolvaptan counteracts tumor progression in vivo and, if confirmed, might indicate a possible role of this molecule as an adjuvant in anticancer strategies.
Time-Course Analysis and Transcriptomic Identification of a Group III ERF CmTINY2 Involved in Waterlogging Tolerance in Chrysanthemums × morifolium Ramat.
Authors: Gu Xueting , Liu Xinyi , Sha Haodong , Du Xuejie , Zhang Han , Miao Yuexiao , Chen Weiliang , Mao Bizeng
Published: August 2024

‘Hangju’ is a variety of Chrysanthemum × morifolium Ramat. with both edible and medicinal value, cultivated as a traditional Chinese medicine for four centuries. The cultivation of ‘Hangju’ is currently at risk due to waterlogging, yet there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding its response to waterlogging stress. This study compared the waterlogging-tolerant ‘Hangju’ variety Enhanced Waterlogging Tolerance (EWT) with the waterlogging-sensitive variety CK (‘zaoxiaoyangju’). EWT exhibited a more developed aeration tissue structure and demonstrated rapid growth regarding the adventitious roots following waterlogging. The time-course transcriptome analysis indicated that EWT could swiftly adjust the expression of the genes involved in the energy metabolism signaling pathways to acclimate to the waterlogged environment. Through WGCNA analysis, we identified Integrase-Type DNA-Binding Protein (CmTINY2) as a key factor in regulating the waterlogging tolerance in EWT. CmTINY2, a transcription factor belonging to the ethylene-responsive factor (ERF) subfamily III, operated within the nucleus and activated downstream gene expression. Its role in enhancing the waterlogging tolerance might be linked to the control of the stomatal aperture via the Ethylene-Responsive Element (ERE) gene. In summary, our research elucidated that the waterlogging tolerance displayed by EWT is a result of a combination of the morphological structure and molecular regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, the study of the functions of CmTINY2 from ERF subfamily III also broadened our knowledge of the role of the ERF genes in the waterlogging signaling pathways.
Targeting Myeloid Differentiation Primary Response Protein 88 (MyD88) and Galectin-3 to Develop Broad-Spectrum Host-Mediated Therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Saikh Kamal U. , Anam Khairul , Sultana Halima , Ahmed Rakin , Kumar Simran , Srinivasan Sanjay , Ahmed Hafiz
Published: August 2024

Nearly six million people worldwide have died from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Although COVID-19 vaccines are largely successful in reducing the severity of the disease and deaths, the decline in vaccine-induced immunity over time and the continuing emergence of new viral variants or mutations underscore the need for an alternative strategy for developing broad-spectrum host-mediated therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2. A key feature of severe COVID-19 is dysregulated innate immune signaling, culminating in a high expression of numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and a lack of antiviral interferons (IFNs), particularly type I (alpha and beta) and type III (lambda). As a natural host defense, the myeloid differentiation primary response protein, MyD88, plays pivotal roles in innate and acquired immune responses via the signal transduction pathways of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a type of pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs). However, recent studies have highlighted that infection with viruses upregulates MyD88 expression and impairs the host antiviral response by negatively regulating type I IFN. Galectin-3 (Gal3), another key player in viral infections, has been shown to modulate the host immune response by regulating viral entry and activating TLRs, the NLRP3 inflammasome, and NF-κB, resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and contributing to the overall inflammatory response, the so-called “cytokine storm”. These studies suggest that the specific inhibition of MyD88 and Gal3 could be a promising therapy for COVID-19. This review presents future directions for MyD88- and Gal3-targeted antiviral drug discovery, highlighting the potential to restore host immunity in SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Seed Tubers Are Not the Primary Inoculum Source in Water Yam (Dioscorea alata) Anthracnose Epidemics in the Caribbean
Authors: Penet Laurent , Gumbau Margot , Dentika Pauline , Poliphème Fritz , Guyader Sébastien , Bussière François , Alleyne Angela T. , Blazy Jean-Marc
Published: August 2024

Crop disease often leads to field epidemics with serious threats to yield. Early symptoms are sometimes difficult to identify, so the origin of primary inoculum is a critical focal point in the study of plant diseases, as it can help design management strategies to reduce crop losses. Here, we investigated whether anthracnose of water yams (Dioscorea alata L.) caused by the species complex Colletotrichum gloeosporioides can start from infected seed tubers from the previous harvest. Over two years, we collected tubers with varying pathogen prevalence in the field directly from producers and conducted fungal isolations in the lab to sample C. gloeosporioides. We also proceeded to artificially inoculate tubers before planting and monitored disease development. Finally, we genotyped isolates from leaves in the fields and assessed fixation indices between plots based on plot ownership (plots with a common seed tuber origin from a single farmer) vs. samples in plots from unrelated producers in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Barbados. We were unable to isolate the fungus from harvested tubers in either sampling survey nor did any plants grown from inoculated tubers develop any disease symptoms during growth. Also, the genetic structure of samples within each plot was independent of plot ownership, though this occurred with varying levels in the different islands. These results suggest that contaminated planting material from seed tubers is not the primary source of the disease, which is in contrast to the common perception of yam anthracnose prevalence in the Antilles.
Quantum Algorithms for the Multiplication of Circulant Matrices and Vectors
Authors: Hou Lu , Huang Zhenyu , Lv Chang
Published: August 2024

This article presents two quantum algorithms for computing the product of a circulant matrix and a vector. The arithmetic complexity of the first algorithm is O(Nlog2N) in most cases. For the second algorithm, when the entries in the circulant matrix and the vector take values in C or R, the complexity is O(Nlog2N) in most cases. However, when these entries take values from positive real numbers, the complexity is reduced to O(log3N) in most cases, which presents an exponential speedup compared to the classical complexity of O(NlogN) for computing the product of a circulant matrix and vector. We apply this algorithm to the convolution calculation in quantum convolutional neural networks, which effectively accelerates the computation of convolutions. Additionally, we present a concrete quantum circuit structure for quantum convolutional neural networks.
Fattybot: Designing a Hormone-Morphic Chatbot with a Hormonal and Immune System
Authors: Albacete Gonzalo Montero , Murillo Juan Murillo , Trasobares Jorge , Lahoz-Beltra Rafael
Published: August 2024

Currently, AI-designed systems in which, given a certain input or prompt, the system returns an output or response are becoming very popular. A chatbot is an example of this kind of system. However, human beings, besides processing the input stimuli or information adequately, are also capable of simultaneously expressing an emotional response to that input information. This is a major factor in the survival of our species. For years, bio-inspired AI models have been proposed in order to make AI systems more human-like. Paradigms, such as neuromorphic computing, represent an example of this trend. In this paper, we propose a new approach that we have termed hormone-morphic by designing a chatbot, Fattybot, with which it is possible to have a conversation. However, since Fattybot is endowed with both a hormonal and immune system, it can feel anxiety or some other altered condition during a conversation, which induces the chatbot to eat compulsively. The ultimate goal of the work is to propose AI systems that not only process information but also experience some of the emotional traits of human beings. In this paper, several simulation experiments are performed showing the usefulness of this approach, for example, in the simulation of a virtual patient.
Impacts of Combining Steinernema carpocapsae and Bracon hebetor Parasitism on Galleria mellonella Larvae
Authors: Aamer Neama A. , El-Moaty Zeinab A. , Augustyniak Maria , El-Samad Lamia M. , Hussein Hanaa S.
Published: August 2024

The greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, is a significant pest in apiculture and a well-established model organism for immunological and ecotoxicological studies. This investigation explores the individual and combined effects of the ectoparasite Bracon hebetor (B.h.) and the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae (S.c.) on G. mellonella larvae. We evaluated the activity of oxidative stress enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, cytochrome P450 activity, cell viability using Annexin V-FITC, DNA damage via comet assay, and larval morphology through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Control larvae exhibited higher GPx and GST activities compared to those treated with B.h., S.c., or the B.h. + S.c. combination. Conversely, MDA levels displayed the opposite trend. SOD activity was reduced in the B.h. and S.c. groups but significantly higher in the combined treatment. Cytochrome P450 activity increased in response to parasitism by B. hebetor. The Annexin V-FITC assay revealed decreased cell viability in parasitized groups (B.h. 79.4%, S.c. 77.3%, B.h. + S.c. 70.1%) compared to controls. DNA damage analysis demonstrated significant differences between groups, and SEM observations confirmed severe cuticle abnormalities or malformations in G. mellonella larvae. These findings highlight the complex interactions between B. hebetor, S. carpocapsae, and their host, G. mellonella. Additionally, they illuminate the intricate physiological responses triggered within the host larvae.
Compression after Impact Response of Kevlar Composites Plates
Authors: Mouzakis Dionysis E. , Charitidis Panagiotis J. , Zaoutsos Stefanos P.
Published: August 2024

Boeing and Airbus developed a special testing procedure to investigate the compressive response of laminates that have been impacted (following standards ASTM D 7137 and DIN 65561). This study focuses on both experimental and numerical analysis of Kevlar plates subjected to compression after impact. To ensure high quality and appropriate mechanical properties, the composite plates were manufactured using autoclaving. The DIN 65561 protocol was followed for all three test systems. Initially, ultrasonic C-scanning was performed on all plates before testing to confirm they were free of any significant defects arising from the manufacturing process. Subsequently, low-energy impact testing was conducted at levels ranging from 0 to 8 Joules. Three specimens were tested at each energy level. After the impact, all specimens underwent ultrasonic C-scanning again to assess the internal delamination damage caused by the impactor. Finally, both pristine and impacted specimens were subjected to compressive testing using the special jig specified in DIN 65561. The compressive impact strength results obtained from these tests were plotted against the delamination area measured by C-scanning. These data were then compared to the results obtained from specimens with artificial damage. Semi-empirical equations were used to fit both sets of curves. The same procedure (impact testing, C-scanning, and data analysis) was repeated to investigate the relationship between impact energy and total delamination area. Lastly, finite element modeling was employed to predict the buckling stresses that develop under compression in the impacted systems studied. These modeling approaches have demonstrated good accuracy in reproducing experimental results for CAI tests.
Parametric Investigation on the Influence of Turbocharger Performance Decay on the Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Marine Large Two-Stroke Dual Fuel Engine
Authors: Shen Haosheng , Yang Fumiao , Jiang Dingyu , Lu Daoyi , Jia Baozhu , Liu Qingjiang , Zhang Xiaochi
Published: August 2024

Identifying and analyzing the engine performance and emission characteristics under the condition of performance decay is of significant reference value for fault diagnosis, condition-based maintenance, and health status monitoring. However, there is a lack of relevant research on the currently popular marine large two-stroke dual fuel (DF) engines. To fill the research gap, a detailed zero-/one-dimensional (0D/1D) model of a marine two-stroke DF engine employing the low-pressure gas concept is first established in GT-Power (Version 2020) and validated by comparing the simulation and measured results. Then, three typical types of turbocharger performance decays are defined including turbine efficiency decay, turbine nozzle ring area decay, and turbocharger shaft mechanical efficiency decay. Finally, the three types of decays are introduced to the engine simulation model and parametric runs are performed in both diesel and gas modes to identify and analyze their impacts on the performance and emission characteristics of the investigated marine DF engine. The results reveal that turbocharger performance decay has a significant impact on engine performance parameters, such as brake efficiency, engine speed, boost pressure, etc., as well as CO2 and NOx emissions, and the specified limit value on certain engine operational parameters will be exceeded when turbocharger performance decays to a certain extent. The changing trend of engine performance and emission parameters as turbocharger performance deteriorates are generally consistent in both operating modes but with significant differences in the extent and magnitude, mainly due to the distinct combustion process (Diesel cycle versus Otto cycle). Furthermore, considering the relative decline in brake efficiency, engine speed drop, and relative increase in CO2 emission, the investigated engine is less sensitive to the turbocharger performance decay in gas mode. The simulation results also imply that employing a variable geometry turbine (VGT) is capable of improving the brake efficiency of the investigated marine DF engine.
Seasonal Shifts: Tracking Fish Larval Diversity in a Coastal Marine Protected Area
Authors: Kallianiotis Athanasios A. , Kamidis Nikolaos
Published: August 2024

This research explored the influence of seasonal and environmental variables on the variation and density of ichthyoplankton in the Thermaikos Gulf and the adjacent marine protected area of the Litochoro artificial reef in Pieria, northern Greece. The objective was to assess the condition of existing ichthyoplankton communities, understand their relationship with seasonal environmental parameters, and ascertain whether the area plays the role of a fish nursery site. Observations were carried out on the boundary of the marine protected area near Litochoro, with collection sessions occurring during the spring, summer, and fall seasons from 2018 to 2021. Ichthyoplankton was collected using a bongo net sampler across 16 stations, identifying seventy larval fish species. Measurements of physico-chemical parameters were taken as well as community and population metrics such as species abundances. In the Litochoro area, the interplay between environmental conditions and the dynamics of ichthyoplankton species highlights significant ecological trends. Notably, commercially important species such as Engraulis encrasicholus (anchovy) and Sardina pilchardus (sardine) exhibited peaks in abundances, with anchovies reaching up to 544/10 m2 in May 2021 and sardines peaking at 383/10 m2 in April 2020. These species are crucial both ecologically, as integral components of the marine food web, and economically, serving as primary targets in local fisheries. Spearman analysis showed some species like anchovy having a negative trend with chl-a values. Also, diversity indices had strong negative correlations with chl-a values, suggesting that higher chl-a concentrations might be associated with lower biodiversity whereas most diversity indices, apart from Pielou’s normality index (J) and Simpson’s diversity index (1–lambda), showed a significant positive correlation with surface salinity. This suggests that increased salinity levels might boost certain facets of biodiversity during the summer and early autumn months.
Isolation and Control of Fruit and Vegetable Rot Fungi
Authors: Tan Xiaoli , Tao Nengguo
Published: August 2024

Fruits and vegetables play an important role in people’s dietary health and economic development [...]
Filamentous Fungi as Excellent Industrial Strains: Development and Applications
Authors: Gandía Mónica , Garrigues Sandra
Published: August 2024

Europe is transitioning towards a biologically based economy to reduce harmful and greenhouse emissions, promoting more sustainable industrial practices [...]
Word Order in Colonial Brazilian Portuguese: Initial Findings
Authors: de Andrade Aroldo Leal , Cardoso Lara da Silva
Published: August 2024

Some recent studies have posed the hypothesis according to which the grammatical stage that precedes the cultured trend of Brazilian Portuguese is Colonial Brazilian Portuguese, not Classical Portuguese. Therefore, there are still few works systematically comparing these two varieties. This is the goal of the present paper, which focuses on word order. By undertaking a corpus-based study using the same textual genre from the contemporary authors Eusébio de Matos and António Vieira, we have looked for all word order patterns while paying special attention to the X*VS order (with one or more constituents preceding the verb and a postverbal subject), given that it is quite typical of Classical Portuguese as a V2-like grammar, unlike the modern Portuguese grammars. We have observed that, although the colonial text follows the general trends of the classical language, it starts to depart from a V2-like grammar because it shows a higher frequency of non-V2 orders and a preference for informationally marked constructions involving internal positions to the clause. From a parameter hierarchy viewpoint, the main conclusion is that such differences represent frequency divergences which are consistent with nano- or microparametric changes which took place later.
A Horn of Pepper or a Head of Onion: An Analysis of Semantic Variation of Classifiers in Jordanian Spoken Arabic from a Cognitive Sociolinguistic Approach
Authors: Altakhaineh Abdel Rahman Mitib , Zibin Aseel , Khalifah Lama Ahmed
Published: August 2024

This study examines the semantic variation in fruit and vegetable classifier usage in Amman, Jordan, employing a cognitive sociolinguistic approach. The semantic variation revolves around using idiomatic classifiers, such as raːs basˤal (“head of onion”), in contrast to neutral classifiers, i.e., ħabbet basˤal (“a piece of onion”) or numerals, such as basˤalteːn (“two onions”). This study focuses on classifiers used with fruits and vegetables, which are particularly relevant due to their physical shapes often prompting metaphorical classifiers and their tendency to take Arabic collective forms that are grammatically singular but semantically plural, complicating the issue of counting and potentially leading to the innovation of novel classifiers. The sample comprised 50 individuals from Amman, stratified based on their gender, age, and education. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal a statistically significant inclination among older, male, and less formally educated speakers towards favoring idiomatic classifiers over the neutral options. This preference suggests that the choice between idiomatic and neutral classifiers may be influenced by social factors. We categorized the metaphors underlying the idiomatic classifiers as entrenched, conventionalized, and transparent, based on Müller (2009). The context of conventional metaphors demonstrates that the source domains of these metaphors could be active for a speaker at a specific moment but may not be active for another speaker at another moment, proposing that metaphoricity is not only a property of a linguistic item but also the cognitive achievement of a certain speaker. The preference for idiomatic classifiers, we argue, may be associated with notions of lower refinement, traditionalism, or reduced prestige.