bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptomic and molecular biology analyses to explore potential immune responses to Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge in Eriocheir sinensis
Authors: Chen Duanduan , Xin Yunteng , Teng Jian , Zhao Xiaodong , Lu Jianbiao , Li Yubao , Wang Hui
Published: December 2024

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a significant pathogen affecting shrimp and crab farming, particularly strains carrying genes associated with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis syndrome. However, the immune response of Eriocheir sinensis to V. parahaemolyticus infection remains unclear. To address this knowledge gap, an experiment was conducted to establish a V. parahaemolyticus infection model. This model aimed to compare pathological damage and enzyme activity changes in E. sinensis hepatopancreas tissue at various infection time points, and to examine transcriptome changes in individuals exhibiting different clinical symptoms of infection. The results showed that intramuscular injection of 1.78 × 106 CFU/mL of V. parahaemolyticus for 24 hours resulted in a 50% mortality rate among the experimental animals. Pathological findings revealed that the infection led to a change in color of the hepatopancreas tissue from bright yellow to white, diffuse tissue cell distribution, and hepatopancreatic necrosis. Additionally, there was a significant increase in the activities of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in the hepatopancreas (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the activities of superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, phenoloxidase, alkaline phosphatase, and acid phosphatase initially increased and then decreased. RNA-seq analysis revealed 11,662 differentially expressed genes compared to the susceptible group and control group, with 6,266 genes up-regulated and 5,396 genes down-regulated. When comparing the susceptible group to the disease-resistant group, 13,515 differentially expressed genes were identified, with 7,694 genes up-regulated and 5,821 genes down-regulated. Finally, comparison between the disease-resistant group and control group yielded 13,515 differentially expressed genes, with 7,631 genes up-regulated and 3,111 genes down-regulated. Differential gene enrichment analysis revealed pathways such as phagosomes, cancer pathways, proteoglycans in cancer, ribosomes, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, starch and sucrose metabolism, and lysosome signaling pathways. Furthermore, 342 immune-related genes with differential expression were identified, primarily enriched in 22 pathways linked to cell signaling. These genes play a crucial role in defense against bacterial invasion and immune response regulation through various signaling pathways. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the defense mechanisms and understanding of Chinese mitten crab immunity against bacterial infection by examining changes in mRNA, enzyme activity, and hepatopancreatic damage during infection.
Knuckles notifications: mid-air haptic feedback on the dorsal hand for hands-on-the-wheel driving
Authors: Montano Roberto , Morales Rafael , Pittera Dario , Frier William , Georgiou Orestis , Cornelio Patricia
Published: December 2024

Ultrasound-based mid-air haptic feedback has been demonstrated to be an effective way to receive in-vehicle information while reducing the driver's distraction. An important feature in communication between a driver and a car is receiving notifications (e.g., a warning alert). However, current configurations are not suitable for receiving notifications (haptic device on the center console requiring palmar feedback) as they force the driver to take their hands off-the-wheel and eyes off-the-road. In this paper, we propose “knuckles notifications,” a novel system that provides mid-air haptic notifications on the driver's dorsal hand while holding the steering wheel. We conducted a series of exploratory studies with engineers and UX designers to understand the perceptual space of the dorsal hand and design sensations associated with 4 in-car notifications (incoming call, incoming text message, navigation alert and driver assistant warning). We evaluated our system with driver participants and demonstrated that knuckles notifications were easily recognized (94% success rate) while not affecting the driving task, and mid-air sensations were not masked by background vibration simulating the car movement.
Language-responsive mathematics teaching and AEN learners in a CLIL context
Authors: Ní Ríordáin Máire , Neville Craig , Daly Megan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study explores the experiences of students with additional educational needs (AEN) in Irish-medium education (IME) mathematics classrooms within a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) context. The research investigates how language-responsive mathematics teaching and adapted summative assessments impact AEN students’ learning outcomes, addressing a critical gap in understanding the interplay between language proficiency and mathematical competencies in bilingual settings.

Methods

A case study design was employed in a single IME primary school, focusing on five AEN students aged 9–10 years. Over a five-week intervention, participants engaged in small-group, language-responsive mathematics lessons tailored to their needs. Two summative assessments—one standard school-approved and one researcher-designed with language adaptations—were administered post-intervention. Data sources included teacher observations, reflective journals, and assessment results, analyzed through thematic coding and descriptive statistics.

Results

The findings revealed that while language adaptations in assessments had minimal impact on overall performance, language-responsive lessons supported student engagement and understanding. Participants demonstrated improved confidence and participation, though challenges persisted in transitioning from concrete to abstract concepts and in language-intensive topics such as probability. The summative assessments were limited in capturing students’ full mathematical abilities due to cognitive and linguistic demands.

Discussion

The study highlights the potential of language-responsive teaching to enhance learning outcomes for AEN students in CLIL contexts. While adapted assessments showed limited efficacy, the pedagogical approach effectively addressed cognitive and linguistic challenges. Future research should explore scalable strategies for integrating language and content learning to support diverse learners in bilingual settings.
Compassion, collaboration and cultural-responsiveness: insights on promoting successful pathways through education for students who face school attendance barriers
Authors: O’Toole Catriona , Ćirić Tara
Published: December 2024

Introduction

With concerns about school attendance problems (SAPs) increasing across the globe, this study sought to explore the varied experiences of young people, parents and practitioners, to uncover barriers to attendance and explore the responses and interventions that support successful pathways for students with school attendance challenges. The study, conducted in Limerick, Ireland, was concerned with participants’ lived experiences, including their experiences of themselves, of their interactions and relationships, and of the complex patterns that co-arise between themselves and the larger systemic context. It was informed by a trauma-informed conceptual framework, known as EMBRACE.

Methods

Four cohorts of participants were purposively sampled: (1) educators (n = 15; school leaders, teachers, alternative education staff), (2) allied professionals (n = 12; psychologists, social workers, community workers etc.), (3) parents (n = 2, both mothers), and (4) young people (n = 11, aged 14–18 years). Online focus groups were conducted with the professional groups. In-person interviews were carried out with parents. The young people participated in either individual interviews or focus group interviews and arts-based methods (self-portraiture and body mapping) were used to facilitate thoughtful, embodied communication in a safe and supportive space. Data was analysed using reflective thematic analysis, with professionals’ data analysed separately to that of parents and young people.

Results

The findings indicated that successful resolution of SAPs depends on the creation of an inclusive, responsive, and flexible mainstream education system, that can meet the needs of diverse learners within a fully resourced continuum of support model. In addition, alternative education pathways (including home tuition and online provision) were considered vital. This study reaffirms the importance of creating space for interagency collaboration and for forging strong relationships characterised by compassion, trust and mutuality, at all levels - between children and young people, parents/carers, colleagues, educators and professionals in other organisations. A special focus is required to help address inordinate structural barriers faced by disenfranchised groups (including the Traveller community in the Irish context).

Discussion

By ensuring that students are listened to, believed, and empowered to actively participate in shaping their educational experiences, it is possible to create successful educational pathways for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Machine learning-based spatiotemporal fusion method for non-intrusive charging pile fault identification
Authors: Duan Youjun , Shu Shi , Zhao Yange , Mo Hengfeng , Wu Haitao , Hou Chengzhi , Tian Hao
Published: December 2024

Fault detection in charging piles is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and the reliability of charging infrastructure. Currently, due to the lack of sufficient fault data for charging piles, achieving stable and accurate fault identification is challenging. Moreover, distinctive fault features are key to accurate fault recognition. To address this, we designed a simulated charging pile system and collected fault data at multiple power levels by manually introducing faults. Furthermore, we proposed a fault identification algorithm based on spatiotemporal feature fusion using machine learning. This algorithm first collects fault data through a sliding window and utilizes Fourier transform to extract frequency domain information to construct temporal features. These features are then fused with spatial current amplitude information to form a distinctive feature set, enabling fault identification based on a machine learning model. Extensive experiments conducted on the constructed dataset show that this method can accurately identify charging pile faults. Compared with random forest and gradient boosted decision tree, the proposed method improves the macro-average score by 2.99% and 7.28%, respectively. We also explored the importance of each feature for fault identification results and the impact of window length on identification outcomes, demonstrating the necessity of the extracted features and the robustness of the proposed method to data resolution.
Association between the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) and incident coronary heart disease: insights from a cohort study on the Chinese population
Authors: Miao Ying , Wang Yu , Yan Pijun , Li Yi , Chen Zhuang , Tong Nanwei , Wan Qin
Published: December 2024

Background

The debate persists regarding whether metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) actively contributes to coronary heart disease or merely acts as a passive indicator.

Objective

This research aims to clarify the relationship between liver fat accumulation, as quantified by FLI, and the risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Methods

Conducted from April to November 2011, the REACTION project, spearheaded by the Endocrinology Branch of the Chinese Medical Association, focused on Chinese adults aged 40 and above. Comprehensive data collection employed both questionnaires and specialized medical equipment, covering physical measurements, blood pressure, and pertinent biochemical markers. The study population excluded those with pre-existing coronary heart disease and acute myocardial infarction. Based on the initial data, participants were segmented and grouped into three categories. Analytically, the study utilized Cox proportional hazards models, further enhanced by stratified analyses to identify variations within predefined demographic groups.

Results

In this study, we enrolled 8,647 participants, comprising 2,887 males and 5,760 females. Over the 10-year non-interventional follow-up period, 433 participants (5%) passed away due to various reasons, with 55 deaths attributed to coronary heart disease/myocardial infarction, accounting for 12.7% of total deaths. Additionally, 484 participants were diagnosed with new-onset coronary heart disease, resulting in an incidence rate of 5.5%. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between FLI and traditional risk factors for coronary heart disease, including age, male gender, abnormal glucose metabolism, hypertension, smoking, TG, TC, LDL-C, etc. The Log-rank test indicated a rising cumulative incidence of coronary heart disease with increasing FLI groupings (P<0.01). Moreover, Cox regression analysis highlighted a notable correlation between FLI levels as a risk factor and the onset of coronary heart disease. After adjusting for other risk factors, individuals in the 30≤FLI<60 group exhibited a 1.203-fold higher risk of coronary heart disease compared to those in the FLI<30 group (p=0.126), while participants in the FLI≥60 group had a 1.386-fold higher risk than those in the FLI<30 group (p=0.041).

Conclusion

Elevated FLI values are strongly associated with an increased susceptibility to coronary heart disease, indicating its potential value as a prognostic marker for the condition.
Fe(II)-loaded goat manure biochar efficiently activated peroxymonosulfate for tetracycline degradation in groundwater
Authors: Fan Lianjie , Xie Qinglin , Li Yanhong , Zou Shengzhang , Lu Haiping , Li Su Ling , Li Xiaoxiao
Published: December 2024

Poultry manure is one of the important sources of antibiotic pollution in agricultural soil and groundwater. Recently, the excessive discharge of goat manure has resulted in groundwater environmental challenges and negative impacts. It is of practical significance that such wastes can be converted into functional materials to promote the resource utilization of waste and reduce the risk of antibiotic contamination. In this study, Fe (Ⅱ)-loaded goat manure biochar (Fe-GMC) was prepared by pyrolyzing goat manure and iron salts and used to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for tetracycline (TC) degradation in groundwater. The as-prepared Fe-GMC exhibited good catalytic performance for PMS activation due to its porous surface and rich oxygen-containing groups. Under the conditions of catalyst dosage of 0.2 g/L, PMS dosage of 1.0 mM, and pH of 3.0, TC was removed 81.3% within 60 min. In addition, the TC degradation efficiency was inhibited to different extents by inorganic anions (HCO3−>Cl−>NO3−) in water. Furthermore, the quenching experiments, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra analysis indicated that the generation of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) was responsible for TC degradation. Particularly, Fe-GMC produces a strong oxidizing agent. This study provides an efficient and environmentally friendly tetracycline degradation catalyst, which offers a new theoretical basis for water environmental remediation.
Impacts of thermal and cold discharge from power plants on marine benthos and its mitigation measures: a systematic review
Authors: Leng Qingxue , Mohamat-Yusuff Ferdaus , Mohamed Khairul Nizam , Zainordin Nazatul Syadia , Hassan Mohd Zafri
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Power plants discharge thermal and cold effluents that significantly alter marine environments, impacting various organisms, including benthic communities. While thermal discharge has received considerable research attention, the impacts of cold discharge remain underexplored. This systematic review synthesizes existing research on the effects of power plant discharges on marine benthic ecosystems.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, following PRISMA guidelines, covering studies from 1974 to 2024. A total of 58 articles were included in this review. CiteSpace was used to visualize trends, and statistical analysis was conducted to assess relationships between environmental parameters and changes in benthic abundance.

Results

A significant negative correlation was observed between temperature differentials, ambient temperature, and benthic abundance. Thermal discharge generally led to reduced benthic diversity and abundance, with occasional increases under low ambient temperatures. Cold discharge effects remain less documented, with evidence primarily focused on phytoplankton and fish. Additionally, dissolved oxygen, pH, and bottom sediment composition were significantly altered by power plant discharge. Detection and mitigation measures are crucial to managing these impacts. Mitigation measures include distributed discharge for cold effluents, advanced heat recovery systems, and careful site selection to minimize impacts on sensitive ecosystems. Long-term management and adaptive strategies are essential to reduce adverse effects and maintain ecological balance.

Discussion

Thermal discharges adversely impact marine benthic organisms by decreasing biodiversity and changing community structure, largely due to elevated temperatures and reduced oxygen levels. Cold discharges present unique challenges that require further research to fully understand their ecological impacts. Mitigation measures, such as distributed discharge for cold effluents and advanced heat recovery systems for thermal discharges, are essential to minimize the environmental impact of power plant operations.
Effect of differences in residual feed intake on gastrointestinal microbiota of Dexin fine-wool meat sheep
Authors: Wang Ziting , Wu Weiwei , Lv Xuefeng , Xing Weiting , Wang Xu , Tuo Yong , Ma Yan , He Linjiao , Zhang Zhijun , Zheng Wenxin
Published: December 2024

In this study, we examined the effects of different residual feed intakes (RFIs) on nutrient digestibility and the microbiota of the digestive tract of Dexin fine-wool sheep. Fifty 70-day-old Dexin fine-wool meat lambs were selected as the experimental group and fed in a single pen for 100 days. Based on their mid-term metabolic weight, 100-day average daily weight gain and daily feed intake, the male Dexin lambs were divided into a low-RFI group (13), a mid-RFI group (18), and a high-RFI group (11). Six male Dexin lambs were selected from each group to collect feces, rumen digesta and solid digesta. Rectal feces were collected from three lambs in each group. The results showed that the digestibility of dry matter and crude protein by sheep in the L-RFI group was than that in the H-RFI group (P < 0.05). Within the microbial population, f_Anaerovoracaceae, g_Christensenellaceae_R_7_group, p_Proteobacteria, and g_Roseburia were significantly correlated with RFI. Energy metabolism, metabolism of amino acids and carbohydrates, transport and catabolism, and cell migration pathways were upregulated in the L-RFI group. The differences in the microbiota of the digestive tract of sheep with different RFIs were reflected in the presence of some key bacterial genera rather than changes in the overall microbial diversity.
The interactions of spontaneous abortion, dietary intake of selenium, and fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) genotype: a case-control study in Iran
Authors: Nooriani Narjes , Saeedirad Zahra , Shekari Soheila , Nami Sheyda , Mahmoudi Zahra , Abbasi Mobarakeh Khadijeh , Adabi Somayyeh Bararnia , Khodarahmi Shiva , Bahmani Parsa , Doaei Saeid , Ajami Marjan , Gholamalizadeh Maryam
Published: December 2024

Background

Spontaneous abortion (SA) is reported to be associated with Fat Mass And Obesity-Associated FTO genotype and dietary intake of selenium. This research assessed the potential interactions between the risk of SA, dietary selenium intake, and the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism.

Methods

This case-control study encompassed 192 women who experienced SA and 347 control participants. Dietary selenium intake was evaluated using a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and Nutritionist IV software. The FTO gene was genotyped for rs9939609 polymorphism.

Result

The findings showed that there were no significant variations in the case and control groups’ dietary selenium intake. A lower selenium intake was inversely associated with SA only among individuals with the TT genotype of the FTO gene (β = −0.19, p = 0.04). The results remained unchanged when age, BMI, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and calorie intake were taken into account.

Conclusion

A link may exist between selenium consumption and SA, especially in individuals with the TT genotype in the FTO gene. These findings underline the influence of genetic factors on how dietary intake impacts SA. Further investigation is required to validate these conclusions.
Construction of a clinically significant prostate cancer risk prediction model based on traditional diagnostic methods
Authors: Ji Wen-Tong , Wang Yong-Kun , Han Zhan-Yang , Wang Si-Qi , Wang Yao
Published: December 2024

Objectives

to construct a prediction model for clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) based on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, digital rectal examination (DRE), and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS).

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 1196 Asian patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy (TRUSB) between June 2000 and February 2023. Patients were randomly divided into a training set of 837 cases (70%) and a validation set of 359 patients (30%). A csPCa risk prediction model was established using the logistic regression. The performance of the model was examined based on calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curves (CIC).

Results

Serum PSA levels, age, DRE results, prostatic shape, prostatic border and hypoechoic area were associated with pathological outcomes. The area under the ROC curve of the training set was 0.890 (95%CI: 0.865-0.816). The optimal cut-off value was 0.279. The calibration curves indicated good calibration, and the DCA and CIC results demonstrated good clinical utility. Significantly, the prediction model has higher negative predictive value (89.8%) and positive predictive value (68.0%) compared with MRI. Subsequently, we developed an online calculator (https://jiwentong0.shinyapps.io/dynnomapp/) with six variables for biopsy optimization.

Conclusion

This study incorporated the results of three traditional diagnostic methods to establish a cost-effective and highly accurate model for predicting csPCa before biopsy. With this model, we aim to provide a non-invasive and cost-effective tool for csPCa detection in Asia and other underdeveloped areas.
Targeting ferroptosis: a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer
Authors: Peng Cuixin , Chen Yanning , Jiang Mingzhang
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women worldwide, with its incidence increasingly observed in younger populations. In recent years, drug resistance has emerged as a significant challenge in the treatment of breast cancer, making it a central focus of contemporary research aimed at identifying strategies to overcome this issue. Growing evidence indicates that inducing ferroptosis through various mechanisms, particularly by inhibiting System Xc-, depleting glutathione (GSH), and inactivating glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), holds great potential in overcoming drug resistance in breast cancer. It is anticipated that therapies targeting ferroptosis will emerge as a promising strategy to reverse tumor resistance, offering new hope for breast cancer patients. This review will explore the latest advancements in understanding ferroptosis in the context of breast cancer drug resistance, with a particular emphasis on the roles of ferroptosis inducers and inhibitors, and the impact of ferroptotic pathways on overcoming drug resistance in breast cancer.
Calcium channels as therapeutic targets in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: current evidence and clinical trials
Authors: Lin Jinye , Wang Xijia , Ma Shibo , Yang Dunhui , Li Kang , Li Dongcai , Zeng Xianhai
Published: December 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) originates from the mucosal epithelium of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx, and is marked by high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Calcium signaling is associated with the progression of HNSCC and the development of drug resistance. Changes in calcium ion flow can trigger severe pathophysiological processes, including malignant transformation, tumor proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and apoptosis evasion. Calcium channels regulate and facilitate these processes. Remodeling of calcium signaling has become one of the most prevalent adaptive mechanisms in cancer cells. Preclinical and clinical evidence indicates that alterations in calcium signaling are crucial for the progression of HNSCC. This review examines the role of calcium channels in HNSCC development and evaluates current clinical trials targeting these channels to assess the feasibility of calcium signaling-based therapies for HNSCC.
Why CEOs need advanced education and training for optimizing decisions in the development of innovative medicinal products? justification and recommendation
Authors: Kramer Peter-Jürgen , Bode Gerd , Bass Rolf
Published: December 2024

Chief executives have been educated and trained how to handle business, to take executive decisions, and take care of financial and human resources in favor of the company they are leading. CEOs (chief executive officers) of innovative pharmaceutical businesses, among others, have only seldomly been trained to understand the immense time periods involved between decisions and their moment of impact, and the skills and languages used by their internal and external R&D (research and development) staff. R&D staff and regulators, however, have undergone full training, and are usually capable of understanding each other across their various specialties (among them compound finding, quality, safety, efficacy, efficiency, risk assessment and management). What is lacking is the specialized training of CEOs in sectors of R&D, which would benefit the company and patients alike. We propose that CEOs and upper management should undergo cross-border training in R&D topics–wherever possible across all sectors, but minimally to grasp such topics sufficiently to handle those scenarios demanding immediate decisions (be it the CEO cutting off developments, or R&D experts defending their continuation). Learning the language of regulators and R&D scientists will help CEOs to take better decisions. Training programs for R&D staff have been developed and implemented all over Europe and elsewhere. We propose to work with the PharmaTrain3.0 Syllabus (www.pharmatrain.eu/pharmatrain-syllabus) (for details see Supplementary Material), which would support clear-cut training of relevant topics by competent teaching staff towards certification of CEOs and high management. It is foreseen that understanding the language and comprehending the R&D issues and staff will help CEOs in achieving reasoned decisions. It is expected that such decisions will incorporate not only the reasons seen for discontinuation of R&D programs, but also those reasons, which favor their continuation under the same or different headlines (e.g., changing the initially proposed indication). Taken together, training according to “Good Training Practices” (GTP) will benefit the company and the patient, who will receive better medicines as early as possible.
Natural ingredients in the regulation of abnormal lipid peroxidation: a potential therapy for pulmonary diseases
Authors: Liu Yundou , Wang Chunyi , Li Mengru , Zhu Yi , Liu Ke , Liu Yufei , Luo Maocai , Zhang Chuantao
Published: December 2024

Pulmonary diseases are a major category of diseases that pose a threat to human health. The most common drugs currently used to treat lung diseases are still chemical drugs, but this may lead to drug resistance and damage to healthy organs in the body. Therefore, developing new drugs is an urgent task. Lipid peroxidation is caused by the disruption of redox homeostasis, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depletion of glutathione (GSH), and inactivation of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Lipid peroxidation is closely related to the occurrence and progression of respiratory diseases, including acute lung injury, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. Natural ingredients have high safety, high availability, and low cost, and can regulate lipid peroxidation through multiple pathways and targets, making them valuable new drugs. This article aims to summarize the pharmacology and mechanism of natural ingredients targeting lipid peroxidation in the treatment of lung diseases. The reviewed data indicate that natural ingredients are a promising anti-lipid peroxidation drug, mainly alleviating lipid peroxidation through the cystine/glutamate antiporter (System Xc−)/GSH/GPX4 axis, Nrf2 pathway, and ROS pathway. In the future, it will still be necessary to further study the mechanisms of natural products in treating pulmonary diseases through lipid peroxidation and conduct multi-center, large-sample clinical trials to promote the development of new drugs.
The characterization of OfRGA in regulation of flower size through tuning cell expansion genes
Authors: Wan Qianqian , Lu Mei , Jiang Gege , Shao Jiexin , Chen Tao , Yang Liyuan , Khan Irshad Ahmad , Deng Jinping , Zhong Shiwei , Wang Yiguang , Xiao Zheng , Fang Qiu , Zhao Hongbo
Published: December 2024

Flower appearance stands as a key characteristic of flowering plants and is closely linked to their ornamental value. Phytohormone Gibberellin (GA), essential for plant growth and development are widely reported for expansion in flower. DELLA proteins are known to negatively regulate GA signaling and influences plant growth and development through the regulation of cell expansion. However, the specific biological function of DELLA proteins in the woody plant Osmanthus fragrans remains unclear. In this study, O. fragrans ‘Sijigui’ was utilized as the experimental material, and OfRGA was isolated using the PCR method. OfRGA is expressed in various tissues and is localized in the nucleus. A negative association was observed between OfRGA expression and petal size across four different Osmanthus fragrans cultivars. Transformation experiments in tobacco revealed that transgenic plants overexpressing OfRGA exhibited increased plant height, greater node spacing, shorter leaf length, and wider leaves during the vegetative phase. Notably, the flower organs of transgenic tobacco plants displayed noticeable alterations, including reduced petal size, shorter corolla tubes, pedicels, male and female stamens, and lighter petal color. Furthermore, a decrease in the length and area of petal and corolla tube cells was observed as well. DEGs were found in RNA-seq studies of OfRGA transgenic plants. Subsequent investigation revealed a considerable quantity of down-regulated genes were associated with cell wall synthesis genes and expansion genes, such as CesA1, XEH, and EXPB1, as well as genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis. Overall, our findings suggest that OfRGA undermines tobacco petal size by influencing cell expansion. The present study offers a fundamental comprehension of the role of DELLA protein in the organ development in Osmanthus fragrans.
Insights into the salinity tolerance of the succulent halophyte Arthrocnemum macrostachyum: comparative ecophysiology of plants from heteromorphic seeds
Authors: Nisar Farah , Hameed Abdul , Gul Bilquees , Aziz Irfan , Nielsen Brent L.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Little is known about the similarities and differences in responses of plants grown from heteromorphic seeds, which are morpho-physiologically dissimilar seeds produced simultaneously on the same plant.

Methods

In this context, we studied how plants grown from heteromorphic (i.e. black and brown) seeds of the succulent halophyte Arthrocnemum macrostachyum respond to increasing salt levels during growth by modulating their physio-chemical processes.

Results

Plants germinated from both black and brown seeds did not show any significant growth reduction and chlorophyll a content decline at moderate salinity (300 mM NaCl) compared to non-saline controls. High salinity (900 mM NaCl), on the other hand, caused decreased growth and sap Ψs in plants derived from either seed type. In plants emerged from brown but not black seeds, high salinity increased the activity of all H2O2-detoxifying antioxidant enzymes as well as GSH level. Under conditions of high salinity, plants obtained from both types of seeds exhibited signs of lipid peroxidation in the form of elevated malondialdehyde levels.

Discussion

Our findings thus point to metabolic variability in A. macrostachyum plants growing from heteromorphic seeds under salt stress.
Antioxidant-mediated suppression of ferroptosis in Pyricularia oryzae: a novel approach to rice blast management for sustainable rice production
Authors: Santoni Mattia , Molina-Hernandez Junior Bernardo , Kunova Andrea , Cortesi Paolo , Brunetti Barbara , Rocculi Pietro , Christodoulou Michael S. , Danesi Francesca
Published: December 2024

Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death, has recently emerged as a crucial process in the pathogenesis of Pyricularia oryzae, the causal agent of the devastating rice blast disease, which causes billions of dollars in annual losses. This mini review explores the potential of antioxidants in suppressing ferroptosis in P. oryzae to promote sustainable rice production, with significant implications for global food security and nutrition. We critically analyze the current literature on the mechanisms of ferroptosis in P. oryzae, including iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation, the role of different antioxidants in inhibiting this cell death pathway, and the potential applications of antioxidant-based strategies for the management of rice blast disease. Recent discoveries, such as the efficacy of the natural flavonoid tangeretin in inhibiting fungal ferroptosis by interfering with the accumulation of iron and reactive oxygen species, highlight the promise of natural and nature-inspired compounds for disease management. The use of antioxidants to modulate ferroptosis in P. oryzae offers several advantages over traditional fungicide-based approaches, including improved safety, sustainability, and potential nutritional benefits through antioxidant-enriched rice varieties. However, challenges such as optimizing delivery methods, managing potential resistance, and ensuring efficacy under different environmental conditions need to be addressed. To achieve these goals, future research should focus on identifying the most effective antioxidant compounds, exploring synergistic combinations, and developing sustainable application methods.
Political capitalism in the digital era: reconstructing the capital–state relation
Authors: Chatzistavrou Filippa
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the role of big tech in becoming an engine of capturing public power. We focus on tech capitalist classes and their determination to capture both the economic benefit and the political decision. First, the article does so by bringing to the fore input from Weber’s political capitalism to explain the linkages between state and tech capitalists as the illustration of a structural dependence where lobbying activities are intensified. Second, pushing further the generally admitted idea of states and markets being co-constitutive allows to broaden the concept of political capitalism to include not only rent seeking, property rights’ issues, and surplus extraction mechanisms but also models of governance. The study suggests that in the case of digital capitalism, property rights on productive resources, originally private while also publicly subsidized, can make big tech not just shapers of common values but also providers of public goods.
Effectiveness of picture exchange communication system in developing requesting skills for children with multiple disabilities
Authors: Alfuraih Riyadh Khalid , Almalki Nabil Sharaf , AlNemary Faisal Mohammed
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) in developing and generalizing requesting skills among children with multiple disabilities. The study was conducted at The Autism Center of Excellence, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This study included three participants age ranged from 4.5 to 6.5 years with intelligence quotient (IQ) scores ranging from 40 to 44. All participants were inrolled in Inclusive Education program. A training program based on PECS was implemented, and data collection involved recording participant responses and observations by external observers. The study followed an experimental approach, specifically utilizing Single-Subject Design (SSD) with a focus on Multi-Baseline Designs (MBD). The results of the study indicated that PECS facilitated the development of requesting skills in children with multiple disabilities, promoting skill retention and generalization across similar situations.
Motor skill experience modulates attentional processing regardless of open- or closed-skill types: an ERP study
Authors: Aly Mohamed , Alzahrani Turki , Fakehy Mohammed , Abass Mohamed , Mohamed Sheref
Published: December 2024

Background

Attentional engagement, the ability to maintain focus on relevant tasks, plays a crucial role in optimizing human performance. Studies have shown that athletes exhibit superior attentional engagement compared to non-athletes; however, it remains unclear if these benefits persist in non-sport-related tasks or differ across types of sports expertise, such as open-skill versus closed-skill sports.

Methods

Ninety-three young adults, divided into open-skill athletes (n = 31), closed-skill athletes (n = 31), and a control group (n = 31), completed an auditory oddball task while the P3 component of event-related potentials was measured to assess attentional processing. Aerobic fitness was assessed using the YMCA fitness test, and linear regression models, adjusted for confounders, examined the relationship between aerobic fitness and attentional processing.

Results

Findings revealed that both open- and closed-skill athletes exhibited significantly larger P3 amplitudes than non-athletes, indicating enhanced attentional engagement. However, no significant differences in response time or response accuracy were observed between the groups. Hierarchical regression analysis further demonstrated a positive correlation between aerobic fitness and P3 amplitude, underscoring the role of aerobic fitness in cognitive processing.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that participation in either open- or closed-skill sports can enhance attentional engagement beyond the sports context in healthy young adults, with aerobic fitness playing a key role in supporting cognitive performance. Additionally, this study extends previous findings from Western and Asian literature by providing evidence from an Egyptian sample, thereby supporting the generalizability of the cognitive benefits of aerobic fitness and sports participation across different cultural contexts.
Effectiveness of individualized rTMS under sMRI guidance in reducing depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in adolescents with depressive disorders: an open-label study
Authors: Sun Yuyong , Liu Xiaoyan , Li Yi , Zhi Qianna , Xia Yong
Published: December 2024

Background

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is occurring at a progressively younger age, and suicide is now the second leading cause of death among adolescents with MDD. Studies have shown that structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) can improve the positioning accuracy and anti-depressant effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), thereby reducing suicidal ideation.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of sMRI-guided rTMS combined with pharmacotherapy, surface 5-cm rTMS positioning combined with pharmacotherapy, and pharmacotherapy alone on reducing depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation (SI) in MDD adolescents.

Methods

This was an open-label study of adjustable-dose pharmacotherapy combined with rTMS for the treatment of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in MDD adolescents. The three study groups were as follows: sMRI navigation for individualized rTMS coordinates targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and in combination with pharmacotherapy for 10 rTMS sessions over two weeks; surface 5-cm positioning for DLPFC in combination with pharmacotherapy for 10 rTMS sessions over two weeks; pharmacotherapy. All patients received only one type of SSRIs anti-depressant. A total of 123 Chinese adolescents aged 13-18 with MDD were enrolled, and psychological parameters were evaluated in the first and second weeks of treatment.

Results

Following treatment, the clinical symptoms improved in all three groups. The sMRI navigation group exhibited significantly more improvement in depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation, without severe adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Ten sessions of rTMS treatment are feasible and effective in improving depressive symptoms and reducing SI in MDD adolescents. The combination of sMRI navigation rTMS and pharmacotherapy was found to yield the best outcomes.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.medicalresearch.org.cn/index, identifier MR-33-24-030536.
A graph neural architecture search approach for identifying bots in social media
Authors: Tzoumanekas Georgios , Chatzianastasis Michail , Ilias Loukas , Kiokes George , Psarras John , Askounis Dimitris
Published: December 2024

Social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and Instagram, host millions of daily users, giving rise to bots automated programs disseminating misinformation and ideologies with tangible real-world consequences. While bot detection in platform X has been the area of many deep learning models with adequate results, most approaches neglect the graph structure of social media relationships and often rely on hand-engineered architectures. Our work introduces the implementation of a Neural Architecture Search (NAS) technique, namely Deep and Flexible Graph Neural Architecture Search (DFG-NAS), tailored to Relational Graph Convolutional Neural Networks (RGCNs) in the task of bot detection in platform X. Our model constructs a graph that incorporates both the user relationships and their metadata. Then, DFG-NAS is adapted to automatically search for the optimal configuration of Propagation and Transformation functions in the RGCNs. Our experiments are conducted on the TwiBot-20 dataset, constructing a graph with 229,580 nodes and 227,979 edges. We study the five architectures with the highest performance during the search and achieve an accuracy of 85.7%, surpassing state-of-the-art models. Our approach not only addresses the bot detection challenge but also advocates for the broader implementation of NAS models in neural network design automation.
MACRPO: Multi-agent cooperative recurrent policy optimization
Authors: Kargar Eshagh , Kyrki Ville
Published: December 2024

This work considers the problem of learning cooperative policies in multi-agent settings with partially observable and non-stationary environments without a communication channel. We focus on improving information sharing between agents and propose a new multi-agent actor-critic method called Multi-Agent Cooperative Recurrent Proximal Policy Optimization (MACRPO). We propose two novel ways of integrating information across agents and time in MACRPO: First, we use a recurrent layer in the critic’s network architecture and propose a new framework to use the proposed meta-trajectory to train the recurrent layer. This allows the network to learn the cooperation and dynamics of interactions between agents, and also handle partial observability. Second, we propose a new advantage function that incorporates other agents’ rewards and value functions by controlling the level of cooperation between agents using a parameter. The use of this control parameter is suitable for environments in which the agents are unable to fully cooperate with each other. We evaluate our algorithm on three challenging multi-agent environments with continuous and discrete action spaces, Deepdrive-Zero, Multi-Walker, and Particle environment. We compare the results with several ablations and state-of-the-art multi-agent algorithms such as MAGIC, IC3Net, CommNet, GA-Comm, QMIX, MADDPG, and RMAPPO, and also single-agent methods with shared parameters between agents such as IMPALA and APEX. The results show superior performance against other algorithms. The code is available online at https://github.com/kargarisaac/macrpo.
Cosmic ray contributions from rapidly rotating stellar mass black holes: cosmic Ray GeV to EeV proton and anti-proton sources
Authors: Allen M. , Biermann P. L. , Chieffi A. , Chini R. , Frekers D. , Gergely L. , Gopal-Krishna  , Harms B. , Jaroschewski I. , Joshi P. S. , Kronberg P. P. , Kun E. , Meli A. , Seo E.-S. , Stanev T.
Published: December 2024

In Radio Super Novae (RSNe) a magnetic field of (B × r) = 1016.0±0.12 Gauss × cm is observed; these are the same numbers for Blue Super Giant (BSG) star explosions as for Red Super Giant (RSG) star explosions, despite their very different wind properties. The EHT data for M87 as well for low power radio galaxies all show consistency with just this value of the quantity (B × r), key for angular momentum and energy transport, and can be derived from the radio jet data. We interpret this as a property of the near surroundings of a black hole (BH) at near maximal rotation, independent of BH mass. In the commonly used green onion model, in which a 2 π flow changes over to a jet flow we interpret this as a wind emanating from the BH/accretion disk system and its surroundings. Near the BH collisions in the wind can produce a large fraction of anti-protons. In this scenario the cosmic Ray (CR) population from the wind/jet is proposed to be visible as EeV protons and anti-protons in the CR data to EeV energy, with a E−7/3 spectrum. This can be connected to a concept of inner and outer Penrose zones in the ergo-region. The observed numbers for the magnetic field imply the Planck time as the governing time scale: A BH rotating near maximum can accept a proton per log bin of energy in an extended spectrum with the associated pions every Planck time.