bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting Longevity Gene SLC13A5: A Novel Approach to Prevent Age-Related Bone Fragility and Osteoporosis
Authors: Zahn Grit , Baukmann Hannes A. , Wu Jasmine , Jordan Jens , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Dirckx Naomi , Schmidt Marco F.
Published: December 2023

Reduced expression of the plasma membrane citrate transporter SLC13A5, also known as INDY, has been linked to increased longevity and mitigated age-related cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Citrate, a vital component of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, constitutes 1–5% of bone weight, binding to mineral apatite surfaces. Our previous research highlighted osteoblasts’ specialized metabolic pathway facilitated by SLC13A5 regulating citrate uptake, production, and deposition within bones. Disrupting this pathway impairs bone mineralization in young mice. New Mendelian randomization analysis using UK Biobank data indicated that SNPs linked to reduced SLC13A5 function lowered osteoporosis risk. Comparative studies of young (10 weeks) and middle-aged (52 weeks) osteocalcin-cre-driven osteoblast-specific Slc13a5 knockout mice (Slc13a5cKO) showed a sexual dimorphism: while middle-aged females exhibited improved elasticity, middle-aged males demonstrated enhanced bone strength due to reduced SLC13A5 function. These findings suggest reduced SLC13A5 function could attenuate age-related bone fragility, advocating for SLC13A5 inhibition as a potential osteoporosis treatment.
Miltiradiene Production by Cytoplasmic Metabolic Engineering in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Ren Xiangxiang , Lin Chuhang , Huang Yanbo , Su Tao , Guo Juan , Yang Lei
Published: December 2023

Plant natural products are important sources of innovative drugs, but the extraction and isolation of medicinal natural products from plants is challenging as these compounds have complex structures that are difficult to synthesize chemically. Therefore, utilizing heterologous expression systems to produce medicinal natural products in plants is a novel, environmentally friendly, and sustainable method. In this study, Nicotiana benthamiana was used as the plant platform to successfully produce miltiradiene, the key intermediate of tanshinones, which are the bioactive constituents of the Chinese medicinal plant Salvia miltiorrhiza. The yield of miltiradiene was increased through cytoplasmic engineering strategies combined with the enhancement of isoprenoid precursors. Additionally, we discovered that overexpressing SmHMGR alone accelerated apoptosis in tobacco leaves. Due to the richer membrane systems and cofactors in tobacco compared to yeast, tobacco is more conducive to the expression of plant enzymes. Therefore, this study lays the foundation for dissecting the tanshinone biosynthetic pathway in tobacco, which is essential for subsequent research. Additionally, it highlights the potential of N. benthamiana as an alternative platform for the production of natural products in plants.
TCAD Simulation Studies on Ultra-Low-Power Non-Volatile Memory
Authors: Xu Ziming , Bi Jinshun , Liu Mengxin , Zhang Yu , Chen Baihong , Zhang Zijian
Published: December 2023

Ultra-Low-Power Non-Volatile Memory (UltraRAM), as a promising storage device, has attracted wide research attention from the scientific community. Non-volatile data retention in combination with switching at ≤2.6 V is achieved through the use of the extraordinary 2.1 eV conduction band offsets of InAs/AlSb and a triple-barrier resonant tunnelling structure. Along these lines, in this work, the structure, storage mechanism, and improvement strategies of UltraRAM were systematically investigated to enhance storage window clarity and speed performance. First, the basic structure and working principle of UltraRAM were introduced, and its comparative advantages over traditional memory devices were highlighted. Furthermore, through the validation of the band structure and storage mechanism, the superior performance of UltraRAM, including its low operating voltage and excellent non-volatility, was further demonstrated. To address the issue of the small storage window, an improvement strategy was proposed by reducing the thickness of the channel layer to increase the storage window. The feasibility of this strategy was validated by performing a series of simulation-based experiments. From our analysis, a significant 80% increase in the storage window after thinning the channel layer was demonstrated, providing an important foundation for enhancing the performance of UltraRAM. Additionally, the data storage capability of this strategy was examined under the application of short pulse widths, and a data storage operation with a 10 ns pulse width was successfully achieved. In conclusion, valuable insights into the application of UltraRAM in the field of non-volatile storage were provided. Our work paves the way for further optimizing the memory performance and expanding the functionalities of UltraRAM.
Response of Biofortified Green Bean Plants to Colletotrichum lindemuthianum
Authors: Hernández-Montiel Luis G. , Ciscomani-Larios Juan P. , Sánchez-Chávez Esteban , Vargas-Arispuro Irasema , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed F. , Avila-Quezada Graciela D.
Published: December 2023

Enhancing crop nutrition though biofortification with essential minerals can, in some circumstances, increase the resistance of plants to the attack by pathogens. As a result, plants activate their defense mechanisms and produce bioactive compounds (BCs) in response. To date, there has been no investigation into the response of green bean plants fortified with magnesium (Mg) salts to the presence of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. This research involved two Mg sources applied by the edaphic route. The pathogen was inoculated on green bean pods, and subsequent analysis was conducted on the accumulation of BCs, including total anthocyanins, total phenols, and total flavonoids, within both symptomatic and healthy tissues. Remarkably, the plant’s defense system was activated, as evidenced by the significantly higher concentration of anthocyanins (p ≤ 0.05) observed in the symptomatic tissues following treatments with both MgCl2 and MgSO4. Further, green bean plants treated with MgSO4 displayed notably elevated concentrations of phenols (p ≤ 0.05) in the inoculated tissues of the pods, suggesting a plausible plant defense mechanism. The levels of BCs were considerably higher in green bean pods of the biofortified plants compared to those which were nonbiofortified. However, perhaps one of the most noteworthy findings is that there were no discernible differences between biofortified and nonbiofortified treatments in stopping anthracnose in green bean pods. These results provide valuable insights contributing to a deeper understanding of this interaction.
Clonal Flux and Spread of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Meat and Its Genetic Relatedness to Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alkuraythi Dalal M. , Alkhulaifi Manal M. , Binjomah Abdulwahab Z. , Alarwi Mohammed , Aldakhil Hind M. , Mujallad Mohammed I. , Alharbi Saleh Ali , Alshomrani Mohammad , Alshahrani Saeed Mastour , Gojobori Takashi , Alajel Sulaiman M.
Published: December 2023

In this study, we investigated both meat-derived and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), exploring their genetic relatedness to patient-derived MRSA isolates in Saudi Arabia. We collected 250 meat samples and identified 53 S. aureus isolates, with 79% being methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and 21% being MRSA. Moreover, we included 80 clinically confirmed patient-derived MRSA isolates. We identified the most common S. aureus clone in both patients and retail meat. In meat, ST6 and ST97 were the most common clones in 55% of the MRSA isolates, and ST1153 and ST672 were the most common in 21% and 17% of the MSSA isolates. In patients, ST5 and ST6 were the predominant clones in 46% of the S. aureus isolates. CC5/ST5-SCCmecVc-t311 and CC361/ST672-SCCmecV-t3841 were common MRSA clones in both meat and patients. CC97 and CC361 clones were the second most prevalent S. aureus clones in meat and were relatively common in patients. Furthermore, we sequenced and characterized novel S. aureus strains ST8109, ST8110, and ST8111. The genomic similarities between meat- and patient-derived S. aureus isolates suggest that retail meat might be a reservoir for S.aureus and MRSA transmission. Therefore, a structured One Health approach is recommended for S. aureus dissemination, genetic characterization, antibiotic resistance, and impact on human health.
Multiplex Real-Time PCR for the Detection of Tetracycline, Ciprofloxacin, and Erythromycin Resistance Determinants from Human and Foodborne Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli
Authors: Zeller-Péronnet Véronique , Bretschneider Nancy , Lausch Johanna , Hanifi Nadera , Pavlovic Melanie , Zarske Michael , Luu Huong Quynh , Busch Ulrich , Stingl Kerstin , Huber Ingrid
Published: December 2023

Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli are the predominant thermophilic species responsible for foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide. Elevated resistance to certain antibiotics was observed due to antimicrobial therapy in farm animals and humans, while reduced antimicrobial usage partially reduced antibiotic resistance. Monitoring the antimicrobial resistance demonstrated a substantial fraction of multi-resistant isolates, indicating the necessity of reliable tools for their detection. In this study, resistance determinants in 129 German and 21 Vietnamese isolates were selected to establish a novel multiplex real-time PCR (qPCR), facilitating the simultaneous detection of four resistance determinants. These comprised tet(O) gene variants associated with tetracycline resistance, point mutations GyrA_T86I and GyrA_T86V associated with ciprofloxacin resistance, and the erm(B) gene together with the point mutation A2075G in the 23S rRNA gene, associated with erythromycin resistance. Moreover, the performance of the qPCR assay was evaluated by comparing the results of qPCR to phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles, obtained with standardized EUCAMP3 microdilution panel, which showed 100% similarity (inclusivity and exclusivity). Variation in measurement methods, including qPCR machines and master mixes showed robustness, essential for laboratories. The assay can be used for the rapid detection of resistance determinants, and is beneficial for monitoring the spread of antibiotic resistance in C. jejuni and C. coli.
Isolation, Antimicrobial Effect and Metabolite Analysis of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ZJLMBA1908 against Citrus Canker Caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri
Authors: Ke Xinru , Wu Zilin , Liu Yucheng , Liang Yonglin , Du Manling , Li Ya
Published: December 2023

Citrus canker caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri is a devastating bacterial disease with severe implications for the citrus industry. Microorganisms possessing biocontrol capabilities against X. citri subsp. citri offer a highly promising strategy for healthy citrus management. In the present study, a broad-spectrum antagonist strain ZJLMBA1908 with potent antibacterial activity against X. citri subsp. citri was isolated from symptomatic lemon leaves, and identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Cell-free supernatant (CFS) of strain ZJLMBA1908 also exhibited remarkable antimicrobial activity, especially suppressing the growth of X. citri subsp. citri and Nigrospora oryzae, with inhibition rates of 27.71% and 63.75%, respectively. The antibacterial crude extract (CE) derived from the CFS displayed effective activity against X. citri subsp. citri. A preventive treatment using the CE significantly reduced the severity and incidence of citrus canker in a highly susceptible citrus host. Additionally, the CE maintained activity in the presence of protease and under a wide range of temperature and pH treatments. Applying high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate and purify the CE resulted in the discovery of one highly potent anti-X. citri subsp. citri subfraction, namely CE3, which could completely inhibit the growth of X. citri subsp. citri. Liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (LC–ESI–MS) analysis revealed that CE3 mainly consisted of palmitic acid, surfactin C15, phytosphingosine and dihydrosphingosine. Taken together, the results contribute to the possible biocontrol mechanisms of B. amyloliquefaciens ZJLMBA1908, as well as providing a promising new candidate strain as a biological control agent for controlling citrus canker.
Exploring and Engineering Novel Strong Promoters for High-Level Protein Expression in Bacillus subtilis DB104 through Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Jun Ji-Su , Jeong Hyang-Eun , Hong Kwang-Won
Published: December 2023

Bacillus subtilis is widely employed for recombinant protein expression. B. subtilis DB104 offers a distinct advantage as a protein expression host because it is an extracellular protease-deficient derivative of B. subtilis 168. We have conducted a time-course transcriptome analysis of B. subtilis DB104 in a prior study. In the present study, we identified 10 genes that exhibited strong expression at each time point or all, based on transcriptome data. Subsequently, we assessed the strength of 12 promoters that transcribe these genes using enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) as a reporter. Among these promoters, Psdp and PskfA had the highest expression levels. At 24 h, these two promoters exhibited 34.5- and 38.8-fold higher strength, respectively, than the strength of P43, the control promoter. Consequently, these two promoters were selected for further development. We enhanced these promoters by optimizing spacer length, promoter sequence, Shine–Dalgarno sequence, regulator binding sites, and terminator sequences. As a result, we successfully engineered the most potent protein expression cassette, Psdp-4, which exhibited a 3.84-fold increase in strength compared to the original Psdp promoter. Furthermore, we constructed an expression cassette for a human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) using Psdp-4 to evaluate its general application. The expression level of His tagged hEGF, quantified using ImageJ analysis and applied to SDS-PAGE, reached the highest yield of 103.9 μg/mL under the control of Psdp-4 at 24 h. The expressed hEGF protein was purified, and its bioactivity was confirmed through a cell proliferation assay using HT-29 cells. Our work demonstrates the construction of a highly efficient expression system for B. subtilis DB104 based on transcriptome data and promoter engineering. This system enables rapid, inducer-free protein expression within 24 h. It can be used as a valuable tool for various industrial applications.
Actinomyces spp. Prosthetic Vascular Graft Infection (PVGI): A Multicenter Case-Series and Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Del Fabro Giovanni , Volpi Sara , Fumarola Benedetta , Migliorati Manuela , Bertelli Davide , Signorini Liana , Matteelli Alberto , Meschiari Marianna
Published: December 2023

Background: Actinomycosis represents a challenging and under-reported complication of vascular surgery. Optimal management of Actinomyces spp. prosthetic vascular graft infection (PVGI) is highly uncertain because of the paucity of reports on this disease. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case-series of Actinomyces-PVGI that occurred in the last five years in two major university hospitals in northern Italy. We searched for previously published cases in the scientific literature. Results: We report five original cases of Actinomyces spp. prosthetic vascular graft infection following aortic aneurysm repair. Our literature review retrieved eight similar cases. Most patients were immunocompetent males. Most infections were polymicrobial (11/13 cases), with a prevalence of A. odontolyticus involvement (3/13 cases were associated with. Salmonella spp. infection). All cases had a late presentation (≥4 months from graft placement), with 61% associated with an aorto-enteric fistula. All patients received antibiotic therapy, but the duration was highly heterogeneous (from two weeks to life-long antibiotics). The patients without surgical revision experienced septic recurrences (2/13), permanent dysfunction (1/13), or a fatal outcome (2/13), while of the remainder who underwent vascular graft explant, six recovered completely and one developed a periprosthetic abscess. In two cases follow-up was not available. Conclusions: This case-series aims to raise the diagnostic suspicion and to describe the current management of Actinomyces-PVGIs. We highlight a high heterogeneity in antibiotic duration, choice of the antibiotic regimen, and surgical management. Higher reporting rate is advisable to produce better evidence and optimize management of this rare complication of vascular surgery.
Isolation and Identification of Culturable Bacteria from South China Seawater and Preliminary Screening of Marine Biocontrol Bacteria
Authors: Guan Limei , Wang Hongxiu , Chen Junhui , Yang Feiying , Yang Jian , Li Jianghuai , Jin Liang
Published: December 2023

Marine microorganisms have evolved special metabolic pathways to produce numerous bioactive substances with novel structures and unique functions. This study analyzed the diversity of culturable bacteria in marine water samples from the South China Sea and screened the isolated bacteria with pathogenic fungi. A total of 200 culturable strains of 72 different bacteria were obtained from 56 water samples from the South China Sea. They belonged to three phyla and four classes, namely Gammaproteobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, Bacilli and Actinomycetia. Bacilli was the dominant class, comprising up to 59.72%, followed by Gammaproteobacteria (20.83%). Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Paenibacillus and Rhizobium were the most dominant genera. Among these strains, HY-88 and HY-91 encoding BamC, FenB and PKSI genes were selected and identified as Bacillus subtilis. The respective inhibition rates of the HY-88 caused by plate confrontation against Magnaporthe grisea, Fusarium oxysporum, Botrytis cinerea, anthrax and Botrytis cinerea were 90.91%, 54.29%, 52.17% and 51.72%, in comparison with HY-91 86.36%, 48.57%, 47.83% and 34.48%. In addition, the supernatant of HY-88 showed a lesion inhibition rate of 74.5%, which was significantly higher than HY-91 (60.55%). In addition, HY-88 and HY-91 showed strong antifungal activity to Colletotrichum viniferum on detached Shine Muscat grapes. Tolerance tests showed that the HY-88 and HY-91 grew at 10–40 °C, 7–10% NaCl and pH 3-11. HY-88 and HY-91 could inhibit various fungal plant diseases, which lays a foundation for the development of new biopesticides.
Acid-Modulated Peptide Synthesis for Application on Oxide Biosensor Interfaces
Authors: Cristóbal-Lecina Edgar , El-Maiss Janwa , Figueras Eduard , Singh Aruna Chandra , Krishnamoorthy Sivashankar , Østerbye Thomas , Pascual García César , Andreu David
Published: December 2023

In this paper we report an acid-modulated strategy for novel peptide microarray production on biosensor interfaces. We initially selected a controlled pore glass (CPG) as a support for solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) to implement a chemistry that can be performed at the interface of multiple field effect transistor (FET) sensors, eventually to generate label-free peptide microarrays for protein screening. Our chemistry uses a temporary protection of the N-terminal amino function of each amino acid building block with a tert-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc) group that can be removed after each SPPS cycle, in combination with semi-permanent protection of the side chains of trifunctional amino acid residues. Such a protection scheme with a well-proven record of application in conventional, batchwise SPPS has been fine-tuned for optimal performance on CPG and, from there, translated to SPR chips that allow layer-by-layer monitoring of amino acid coupling. Our results validate this acid-modulated synthesis as a feasible approach for producing peptides in high yields and purity on flat glass surfaces, such as those in bio-FETs.
Oligofructose-Enriched Inulin Consumption Acutely Modifies Markers of Postexercise Appetite
Authors: Hamilton Courteney C. , Bomhof Marc R.
Published: December 2023

Enhancing the effectiveness of exercise for long-term body weight management and overall health benefits may be aided through complementary dietary strategies that help to control acute postexercise energy compensation. Inulin-type fructans (ITFs) have been shown to induce satiety through the modified secretion of appetite-regulating hormones. This study investigated the acute impact of oligofructose-enriched inulin (OI) consumption after exercise on objective and subjective measures of satiety and compensatory energy intake (EI). In a randomized crossover study, following the completion of a 45 min (65–70% VO2peak) evening exercise session, participants (BMI: 26.9 ± 3.5 kg/m2, Age: 26.8 ± 6.7 yrs) received one of two beverages: (1) sweetened milk (SM) or (2) sweetened milk + 20 g OI (SM+OI). Perceived measures of hunger were reduced in SM+OI relative to SM (p = 0.009). Within SM+OI, but not SM, plasma concentrations of GLP-1 and PYY were increased and acyl-ghrelin reduced from pre-exercise to postexercise. EI during the ad libitum breakfast in the morning postexercise tended to be lower in SM+OI (p = 0.087, d = 0.31). Gastrointestinal impacts of OI were apparent with increased ratings of flatulence (p = 0.026, d = 0.57) in participants the morning after the exercise session. Overall, the ingestion of a single dose of OI after an exercise session appears to induce subtle reductions in appetite, although the impact of these changes on acute and prolonged EI remains unclear.
Aralia continentalis Root Enhances Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep by Activating GABAA Receptors
Authors: Yoon Minseok , Lim Dong Wook , Jung Jonghoon , Jung Young Sung , Lee Changho , Um Min Young
Published: December 2023

Aralia continentalis exhibits various biological activities; however, their sleep-promoting effects have not been previously reported. In this study, we evaluated the hypnotic effects and sleep–wake profiles of A. continentalis root (KS-126) using a pentobarbital-induced sleep-acceleration test and polysomnographic recordings. Additionally, we investigated the molecular mechanism of KS-126 through patch-clamp electrophysiology. Our polysomnographic recordings revealed that KS-126 not only accelerated the onset of non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS) but also extends its duration. Considering the temporal dynamics of the sleep–wake stages, during the initial and subsequent periods KS-126 extended NREMS duration and decreased wakefulness, thereby enhancing sleep-promoting effects. Furthermore, the assessment of sleep quality via analysis of electroencephalogram power density indicated that KS-126 did not significantly alter sleep intensity. Finally, we found that KS-126 enhanced GABAA receptor-mediated synaptic responses in primary hippocampal neurons, leading to an increase in the percentage of the GABA current. This effect was not affected by the selective benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil, but was entirely inhibited by the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline. In conclusion, KS-126 extends the duration of NREMS without altering its intensity by prolonging GABAergic synaptic transmission, which modulates GABAA receptor function.
Sustainable Treatment of Oral Traumatic Ulcers with Licorice Containing Hydrogels: Integrating Computational Modeling, Quality by Design, Green Synthesis, and Molecular Biological Evaluation
Authors: Moussa Sarah G. , El Hoffy Nada M. , Mouselhy Yara Y. , Mubarak Ramy , Attia Reem T. , Khalil Noha , Amer Sherif A.
Published: December 2023

The urge to implement innovative approaches that align with eco-friendly practices and hold promise for enhancing oral health while promoting environmental sustainability has been increasing. This current work aims to develop a sustainable treatment for oral traumatic ulcers using licorice-based hydrogels (LHGs) containing hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) as the green gelling agent. Licorice root aqueous extract was phytochemically profiled using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Forty-three compounds were detected, with Glycyrrhizic acid being the major component of the extract (34.85 ± 2.77%). By implementing a Quality by Design (QbD) approach, the study investigates the effects of different licorice extract and HEC concentrations on key variables such as pH and viscosity of the prepared formulations, ulcer and wound healing scores, and tissue growth factors via a Full Factorial Experimental Design. The LHGs exhibited desirable consistency, spreadability, and clarity. Statistical analysis, employing an ANOVA test, revealed the high significance of the constructed models with the licorice concentration being the key independent factor affecting all dependent outputs. The pH as well as the viscosity of the prepared LHGs were positively influenced by licorice extract concentration, with higher concentrations leading to increased alkalinity and viscosity. Rheological behavior analysis revealed a pseudoplastic flow with demonstrated thixotropy which is advantageous for application and prolongation of residence time. The wound healing process was assessed through ulcer size, traumatic ulcer healing score (UHS), collagen-1 expression (COL-1), growth factors (EGF, VEGF), pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α), wound healing score (WHS). LHGs prepared using higher levels of both factors, 30% dried licorice root extract and 4% HEC, demonstrated enhanced wound healing, elevated growth factor expression of 66.67% and 23.24%, respectively, and 88% reduced inflammation compared to the control group, indicating their potential in expediting oral ulcer recovery. Overall, these findings highlight the promising role of green licorice-based hydrogels in promoting sustainable oral mucosal healing.
Density Functional Study of Structural and Vibrational Properties of α-Moganite
Authors: Pankin Dmitrii , Smirnov Mikhail , Roginskii Evgenii , Savin Aleksandr , Kolesnikov Ilya , Povolotckaia Anastasia
Published: December 2023

α-moganite is a recently discovered polymorph of silica, commonly intergrown with quartz in natural microcrystalline silica samples. An important challenge is finding an effective method for estimating its amount in a sample under study, which is important for its applications, related to the technology of growth of dielectric layers, as well as for fundamental problems, related to the formation of both terrestrial and lunar mineral deposits and biogenic formation. One of these methods is vibrational spectroscopy, with the help of which the presence of a particular compound is determined by the presence of characteristic spectral lines. In this work, the search for such lines is carried out using density functional theory calculations and comparisons of the IR and Raman spectra of α-quartz and α-moganite. With the help of such calculations, the stability of the moganite structure has been proven for the first time, and its spectral characteristics have been determined over the entire range of vibrational frequencies. Several new spectral lines characteristic of α-moganite were discovered in the 65–85 cm−1 region. Moreover, the evolution of spectral peculiarities under hydrostatic pressure was studied.
Arabidopsis Root Development Regulation by the Endogenous Folate Precursor, Para-Aminobenzoic Acid, via Modulation of the Root Cell Cycle
Authors: Lasok Hanna , Nziengui Hugues , Kochersperger Philip , Ditengou Franck Anicet
Published: December 2023

The continuous growth of roots depends on their ability to maintain a balanced ratio between cell production and cell differentiation at the tip. This process is regulated by the hormonal balance of cytokinin and auxin. However, other important regulators, such as plant folates, also play a regulatory role. In this study, we investigated the impact of the folate precursor para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) on root development. Using pharmacological, genetic, and imaging approaches, we show that the growth of Arabidopsis thaliana roots is repressed by either supplementing the growth medium with PABA or overexpressing the PABA synthesis gene GAT-ADCS. This is associated with a smaller root meristem consisting of fewer cells. Conversely, reducing the levels of free root endogenous PABA results in longer roots with extended meristems. We provide evidence that PABA represses Arabidopsis root growth in a folate-independent manner and likely acts through two mechanisms: (i) the G2/M transition of cell division in the root apical meristem and (ii) promoting premature cell differentiation in the transition zone. These data collectively suggest that PABA plays a role in Arabidopsis root growth at the intersection between cell division and cell differentiation.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Fruit Quality Formation in Actinidia eriantha Benth
Authors: Wang Peiyu , Feng Xin , Jiang Jinlan , Yan Peipei , Li Zunwen , Luo Weihong , Chen Yiting , Ye Wei
Published: December 2023

Actinidia chinensis Planch. is a fruit tree originating from China that is abundant in the wild. Actinidia eriantha Benth. is a type of A. chinensis that has emerged in recent years. The shape of A. eriantha is an elongated oval, and the skin is covered with dense, non-shedding milk-white hairs. The mature fruit has flesh that is bright green in colour, and the fruit has a strong flavour and a grass-like smell. It is appreciated for its rich nutrient content and unique flavour. Vitamin C, sugar, and organic acids are key factors in the quality and flavour composition of A. eriantha but have not yet been systematically analysed. Therefore, we sequenced the transcriptome of A. eriantha at three developmental stages and labelled them S1, S2, and S3, and comparisons of S1 vs. S2, S1 vs. S3, and S2 vs. S3 revealed 1218, 4019, and 3759 upregulated differentially expressed genes and 1823, 3415, and 2226 downregulated differentially expressed genes, respectively. Furthermore, the upregulated differentially expressed genes included 213 core genes, and Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that they were enriched in hormones, sugars, organic acids, and many organic metabolic pathways. The downregulated differentially expressed genes included 207 core genes, which were enriched in the light signalling pathway. We further constructed the metabolic pathways of sugars, organic acids, and vitamin C in A. eriantha and identified the genes involved in vitamin C, sugar, and organic acid synthesis in A. eriantha fruits at different stages. During fruit development, the vitamin C content decreased, the carbohydrate compound content increased, and the organic acid content decreased. The gene expression patterns were closely related to the accumulation patterns of vitamin C, sugars, and organic acids in A. eriantha. The above results lay the foundation for the accumulation of vitamin C, sugars, and organic acids in A. eriantha and for understanding flavour formation in A. eriantha.
Physiological Effects of Microbial Biocontrol Agents in the Maize Phyllosphere
Authors: Vanacore María Fiamma Grossi , Sartori Melina , Giordanino Francisco , Barros Germán , Nesci Andrea , García Daiana
Published: December 2023

In a world with constant population growth, and in the context of climate change, the need to supply the demand of safe crops has stimulated an interest in ecological products that can increase agricultural productivity. This implies the use of beneficial organisms and natural products to improve crop performance and control pests and diseases, replacing chemical compounds that can affect the environment and human health. Microbial biological control agents (MBCAs) interact with pathogens directly or by inducing a physiological state of resistance in the plant. This involves several mechanisms, like interference with phytohormone pathways and priming defensive compounds. In Argentina, one of the world’s main maize exporters, yield is restricted by several limitations, including foliar diseases such as common rust and northern corn leaf blight (NCLB). Here, we discuss the impact of pathogen infection on important food crops and MBCA interactions with the plant’s immune system, and its biochemical indicators such as phytohormones, reactive oxygen species, phenolic compounds and lytic enzymes, focused mainly on the maize–NCLB pathosystem. MBCA could be integrated into disease management as a mechanism to improve the plant’s inducible defences against foliar diseases. However, there is still much to elucidate regarding plant responses when exposed to hemibiotrophic pathogens.
Identification of the CNGC Gene Family in Rice and Mining of Alleles for Application in Rice Improvement
Authors: Wang Xinchen , Wu Fengcai , Zhang Jinguo , Bao Yaling , Wang Nansheng , Dou Guohui , Meng Dezhuang , Wang Xingmeng , Li Jianfeng , Shi Yingyao
Published: December 2023

Cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel (CNGC) gene regulation plays important roles in plant immune and abiotic stress response. Here, we identified 16 CNGC genes in rice (Oryza sativa). Then, we analyzed their chromosomal location, physicochemical properties, subcellular localization, gene functional interaction network, cis-acting elements, phylogenetic relationships, collinearity, expression in tissues under normal conditions and abiotic stresses, and geng-cds-haplotype (gcHap) diversity in 3010 gcHaps. As a result, OsCNGC3 (Os06g0527300) was identified as a gene different from previous report, and OsCNGC genes were found to play important roles in rice population differentiation and rice improvement. Our results revealed their very strong differentiation between subspecies and populations, important roles in response to abiotic stresses, as well as strong genetic bottleneck effects and artificial selection of gcHap diversity in the modern breeding process of Xian (indica) and Geng (japonica) populations. The results also suggested that natural variations in most rice CNGC loci are potentially valuable for improving rice productivity and tolerance to abiotic stresses. The favorable alleles at the CNGC loci should be explored to facilitate their application in future rice improvement.
Comparative Physiology and Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into the Regulatory Mechanism of Albinotic Bambusa oldhamii
Authors: Qian Qixia , Ye Quanfeng , Xu Yin , Vasupalli Naresh , Lu Haiwen , Hu Qiutao , Hou Dan
Published: December 2023

Albinism is a unique problem encountered in tissue culture experiments, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear in most bamboo species. In this study, we identified the putative regulatory genes in an albino mutant of Bambusa oldhamii using comparative physiology and transcriptome analysis. The degeneration of chloroplasts, low chlorophyll (Chl) content and reduced photosynthetic capacity were observed in albinotic B. oldhamii compared to normal lines. A total of 6191 unigenes were identified that were clearly differentially expressed between albino and normal lines by transcriptome sequencing. Most genes related to chloroplast development (such as Psa, Psb) and pigment biosynthesis (such as LHC, GUN4, ZEP) were downregulated significantly in albinotic lines, which might be responsible for the albino phenotype. Moreover, some transcription factors (TFs) such as PIF and GLK1 were identified to be involved in chloroplast development and Chl synthesis, indicating the involvement of putative regulatory pathways PIF-LHC and GLK1-LHC/Psa/Psb in albinotic B. oldhamii. Finally, the downregulation of some stress responsive TFs (like ICE1 and EREB1) suggested a reduction in stress resistance of albinotic B. oldhamii. The above findings provided new insights into the molecular mechanism of albinism in bamboo.
Exploring Schwann Cell Behavior on Electrospun Polyhydroxybutyrate Scaffolds with Varied Pore Sizes and Fiber Thicknesses: Implications for Neural Tissue Engineering
Authors: Lezcano María Florencia , Martínez-Rodríguez Paulina , Godoy Karina , Hermosilla Jeyson , Acevedo Francisca , Gareis Iván Emilio , Dias Fernando José
Published: December 2023

The placement of a polymeric electrospun scaffold is among the most promising strategies to improve nerve regeneration after critical neurotmesis. It is of great interest to investigate the effect of these structures on Schwann cells (SCs), as these cells lead nerve regeneration and functional recovery. The aim of this study was to assess SC viability and morphology when cultured on polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) electrospun scaffolds with varied microfiber thicknesses and pore sizes. Six electrospun scaffolds were obtained using different PHB solutions and electrospinning parameters. All the scaffolds were morphologically characterized in terms of fiber thickness, pore size, and overall appearance by analyzing their SEM images. SCs seeded onto the scaffolds were analyzed in terms of viability and morphology throughout the culture period through MTT assay and SEM imaging. The SCs were cultured on three scaffolds with homogeneous smooth fibers (fiber thicknesses: 2.4 μm, 3.1 μm, and 4.3 μm; pore sizes: 16.7 μm, 22.4 μm, and 27.8 μm). SC infiltration and adhesion resulted in the formation of a three-dimensional network composed of intertwined fibers and cells. The SCs attached to the scaffolds maintained their characteristic shape and size throughout the culture period. Bigger pores and thicker fibers resulted in higher SC viability.
Valorisation of Chitosan Natural Building Block as a Primary Strategy for the Development of Sustainable Fully Bio-Based Epoxy Resins
Authors: Fusteș-Dămoc Iolanda , Dinu Roxana , Măluțan Teodor , Mija Alice
Published: December 2023

The non-toxic and biodegradable nature of chitosan makes it a valuable resource offering promising opportunities in the development of bio-based materials with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties. In this work, the combination of epoxidized linseed oil, oxalic or citric acids, and chitosan (CHI) as a curing accelerator presents an attractive strategy to create bio-based and sustainable thermosetting materials. This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the systems reactivities, characteristics, and performance evaluation of the designed bio-thermosets. Both the nature of the two carboxylic acids and the presence of chitosan are shown to have a big impact on the thermomechanical properties of the developed networks. While oxalic acid favours the formation of elastic networks, with low Tg values (increasing with CHI content between 0.7 and 8.5 °C) and relatively low Young’s modulus (~2.5 MPa), citric acid promotes the formation of very dense networks with lower mass of the segments between the crosslinks, having 20 times higher Tg values (from 36 to 45 °C) and ~161 times higher Young’s modulus (from 94 MPa up to 404 MPa in these systems). The CHI has a strong impact on the curing reaction and on the overall properties, by increasing the materials’ performance.
Evaluation of Saline Solutions and Organic Compounds as Displacement Fluids of Bentonite Pellets for Application in Abandonment of Offshore Wells
Authors: Costa Waleska Rodrigues Pontes da , Oliveira Laura Rafaela Cavalcanti de , Nóbrega Karine Castro , Costa Anna Carolina Amorim , Gonçalves Ruth Luna do Nascimento , Lima Mário César de Siqueira , Nascimento Renalle Cristina Alves de Medeiros , Souza Elessandre Alves de , Oliveira Tiago Almeida de , Barros Michelli , Amorim Luciana Viana
Published: December 2023

One of the operational challenges regarding the use of bentonite pellets as sealing materials in the abandonment of offshore fields consists of their placement inside the well. This study aimed to analyze the interaction of fluid media, consisting of saline solutions (NaCl, CaCl2 and KCl) and organic compounds (diesel, glycerin and olefin), with bentonite pellets, for their applications as displacement fluids in offshore oil well abandonment operations. The physical integrity of the bentonite pellets in contact with the fluids was verified through visual inspections and dispersibility tests. Linear swelling tests were also performed to evaluate the swelling potentials of the pellets in deionized water after their contact with the fluid media. The results indicated that the NaCl, CaCl2 and KCl solutions completely compromised the physical integrity of the pellets, while diesel and olefin showed the best responses regarding the structural preservation. Furthermore, the linear swelling tests showed that, even after the contact with diesel and olefin for 1 h, the bentonite pellets reached a total swelling of 78% in water after 24 h. In this way, diesel and olefin proved to be highly promising alternatives to be used as displacement fluids for bentonite pellets in wells that will be abandoned in a submarine environment.
Modelling and Optimization of Methylene Blue Adsorption Process on Leonurus cardiaca L. Biomass Powder
Authors: Mosoarca Giannin , Popa Simona , Vancea Cosmin , Dan Mircea , Boran Sorina
Published: December 2023

The main objective of this study was to optimize the adsorption process of methylene blue on a natural, low-cost adsorbent, Leonurus cardiaca L. biomass powder, in order to maximize dye removal efficiency from aqueous solutions. For this purpose, the Taguchi method was used based on an L27 orthogonal array design considering six controllable factors at three levels. The percentage contribution of each factor was computed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The optimal adsorption conditions were established. The experimental data from equilibrium and kinetic studies were modelled using specific equilibrium isotherms and kinetic models. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated in order to determine the main adsorption mechanism. The obtained results showed that the ionic strength is the factor that most influences dye adsorption (percentage contribution 72.33%), whereas the adsorbent dose had the least impact. The Sips isotherm and the general kinetic model most accurately characterized the process. The maximum adsorption capacity 103.21 (mg g−1) indicated by the Sips isotherm and the equilibrium time (40 min) were better compared to the values obtained for other bio-adsorbents used for methylene blue adsorption. The main mechanism involved in the adsorption is physisorption, while chemisorption only contributes marginally to the process.
Multi-Satellite Observation-Relay Transmission-Downloading Coupling Scheduling Method
Authors: He Changyuan , Dong Yunfeng
Published: December 2023

With the development of satellite cluster technology, the earth observation capability of satellite clusters has been greatly enhanced, along with the improvement of satellite earth observation and inter-satellite data transmission ability. Nevertheless, it is difficult to coordinate satellite observation, inter-satellite data transmission, and satellite–ground data download to satisfy the constraints of satellite multi-subsystems. In this article, the multi-satellite observation-relay transmission-downloading coupling scheduling problem is described. Based on the conventional tabu search algorithm for multi-satellite earth observation, the data transmission path planning algorithm is integrated to carry out the entire coupling process of multi-satellite observation, inter-satellite data transmission, and satellite–ground data downloading. Referring to the idea of the artificial potential field method, the satellite cluster profit-state evaluation function is introduced to enhance the local search process within the tabu search framework. Moreover, in the data transmission planning algorithm, the rule-based Dijkstra data transmission path planning method is proposed based on two data transmission path planning strategies and the satellite cluster state-strategy selection rules. The simulation results show that the proposed method can realize the entire process of scheduling satellite cluster observation, relay transmission, and downloading and enhance the ability of the satellite cluster to obtain observation data. The improved Dijkstra method enhances the adaptability of the data transmission path planning method to the multi-subsystem coupled problem, and the improved local search in the tabu search method elevates the searching capability of the algorithm.
Plugging the Gaps in the Global PhenoCam Monitoring of Forests—The Need for a PhenoCam Network across Indian Forests
Authors: Jose Karun , Chaturvedi Rajiv Kumar , Jeganathan Chockalingam , Behera Mukunda Dev , Singh Chandra Prakash
Published: December 2023

Our understanding of the impact of climate change on forests is constrained by a lack of long-term phenological monitoring. It is generally carried out via (1) ground observations, (2) satellite-based remote sensing, and (3) near-surface remote sensing (e.g., PhenoCams, unmanned aerial vehicles, etc.). Ground-based observations are limited by space, time, funds, and human observer bias. Satellite-based phenological monitoring does not carry these limitations; however, it is generally associated with larger uncertainties due to atmospheric noise, land cover mixing, and the modifiable area unit problem. In this context, near-surface remote sensing technologies, e.g., PhenoCam, emerge as a promising alternative complementing ground and satellite-based observations. Ground-based phenological observations generally record the following key parameters: leaves (bud stage, mature, abscission), flowers (bud stage, anthesis, abscission), and fruit (bud stage, maturation, and abscission). This review suggests that most of these nine parameters can be recorded using PhenoCam with >90% accuracy. Currently, Phenocameras are situated in the US, Europe, and East Asia, with a stark paucity over Africa, South America, Central, South-East, and South Asia. There is a need to expand PhenoCam monitoring in underrepresented regions, especially in the tropics, to better understand global forest dynamics as well as the impact of global change on forest ecosystems. Here, we spotlight India and discuss the need for a new PhenoCam network covering the diversity of Indian forests and its possible applications in forest management at a local level.
High-Resolution Mapping of Mangrove Species Height in Fujian Zhangjiangkou National Mangrove Nature Reserve Combined GF-2, GF-3, and UAV-LiDAR
Authors: Chen Ran , Zhang Rong , Zhao Chuanpeng , Wang Zongming , Jia Mingming
Published: December 2023

Mangroves as an important blue carbon ecosystem have a unique ability to sequester and store large amounts of carbon. The height of mangrove forest is considered to be a critical factor in evaluating carbon sink capacity. However, considering the highly complicated nature of the mangrove system, accurate estimation of mangrove species height is challenging. Gaofen-2 (GF-2) panchromatic and multispectral sensor (PMS), Gaofen-3 (GF-3) SAR images, and unmanned aerial vehicle-light detection and ranging (UAV-LiDAR) data have the capability to capture detailed information about both the horizontal and vertical structures of mangrove forests, which offer a cost-effective and reliable approach to predict mangrove species height. To accurately estimate mangrove species height, this study obtained a variety of characteristic parameters from GF-2 PMS and GF-3 SAR data and utilized the canopy height model (CHM) derived from UAV-LiDAR data as the observed data of mangrove forest height. Based on these parameters and the random forest (RF) regression algorithm, the mangrove species height result had a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.91 m and an R2 of 0.71. The Kandelia obovate (KO) exhibited the tallest tree height, reaching a maximum of 9.6 m. The polarization features, HH, VV, and texture feature, mean_1 (calculated based on the mean value of blue band in GF-2 image), had a reasonable correlation with canopy height. Among them, the most significant factor in determining the height of mangrove forest was HH. In areas where it is difficult to conduct field surveys, the results provided an opportunity to update access to acquire forest structural attributes.