bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of La-N Co-Doping of BaTiO3 on Its Electron-Optical Properties for Photocatalysis: A DFT Study
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhou Qinyan , Zhang Qiankai , Ren Yuanyang , Cui Kunqi , Cheng Chuanhui , Wu Kai
Published: May 2024

In cation–anion co-doping, rare earth elements excel at regulating the electronic structure of perovskites, leading to their improved photocatalytic performance. In this regard, the impact of co-doping rare earth elements at the Ba and Ti sites in BaTiO3 on its electronic and photocatalytic properties was thoroughly investigated based on 2 × 2 × 2 supercell structures of BaTiO3 with different La concentrations of 12.5% and 25% using DFT calculations. The band structure, density of states, charge density difference, optical properties, and the redox band edge of the co-doped models mentioned above were analyzed. The results indicated that the BaTiO3 structure co-doped with 25% La at the Ti site exhibited higher absorption in the visible range and displayed a remarkable photocatalytic water-splitting performance. The introduced La dopant at the Ti site effectively reduced the energy required for electronic transitions by introducing intermediate energy levels within the bandgap. Our calculations and findings of this study provide theoretical support and reliable predictions for the exploration of BaTiO3 perovskites with superior photocatalytic performances.
The Influence of the Soil Profile on the Formation of the Elemental Image of Grapes and Wine of the Cabernet Sauvignon Variety
Authors: Temerdashev Zaual , Abakumov Aleksey , Khalafyan Alexan , Bolshov Mikhail , Lukyanov Aleksey , Vasilyev Alexander , Gipich Evgeniy
Published: May 2024

The features for assessing the authenticity of wines by region of origin are studied, based on the relationship between the mineral composition of the wine, the grapes, and the soil profile (0 to 160 cm) from the place of growth of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Soil, grape, and wine samples were taken from the territories of six vineyards in the Anapa district of Krasnodar Territory, Russia. Using the methods of ICP-OES, thermal, and X-ray phase analysis, the soils were differentiated into three groups, differing in mineralogical and mineral compositions. The soil samples of the first group contained up to 31% quartz, the second group up to 25% quartz and 19% mixed calcite, and the third group up to 32% calcite and 15% quartz. The formation of the elemental image of the grapes was studied, taking into account the total content and mobile forms of metals in the soil. The territorial proximity of the vineyards did not affect the extraction of elements from the soil into the grape berry, and the migration of metals for each territory was selective. According to the values of the biological absorption coefficient, the degree of transition of metals from the soil to a berry was estimated. For K, Ti, Zn, Rb, Cu, and Fe in all berries, the coefficient was higher than 1.00, which means that the berry extracts contained not only mobile-form, but also difficult-to-dissolve metal compounds. The migration of macro-components from the soil to the berry was low, and amounted to 6–7% for Ca, 0.8–3.0% for Na, and 25–70% for Mg of the concentration of their mobile forms. For all territories, the maximum correlation between metal concentrations in grapes and soil was observed for samples from a depth of 0–40 cm. The discriminant model based on concentrations of Rb, Al, K, Sr, Co, Na, Pb, Ca, and Ni showed the formation of clusters in the territories of vineyard cultivation. The developed model allow the problems of identifying wines by region to be solved with high accuracy, using their elemental image.
Metabolic Engineering of Corynebacterium glutamicum for the Production of Flavonoids and Stilbenoids
Authors: Chu Luan Luong , Tran Chau T. Bang , Pham Duyen T. Kieu , Nguyen Hoa T. An , Nguyen Mi Ha , Pham Nhung Mai , Nguyen Anh T. Van , Phan Dung T. , Do Ha Minh , Nguyen Quang Huy
Published: May 2024

Flavonoids and stilbenoids, crucial secondary metabolites abundant in plants and fungi, display diverse biological and pharmaceutical activities, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. However, conventional production methods, such as chemical synthesis and plant extraction, face challenges in sustainability and yield. Hence, there is a notable shift towards biological production using microorganisms like Escherichia coli and yeast. Yet, the drawbacks of using E. coli and yeast as hosts for these compounds persist. For instance, yeast’s complex glycosylation profile can lead to intricate protein production scenarios, including hyperglycosylation issues. Consequently, Corynebacterium glutamicum emerges as a promising alternative, given its adaptability and recent advances in metabolic engineering. Although extensively used in biotechnological applications, the potential production of flavonoid and stilbenoid in engineered C. glutamicum remains largely untapped compared to E. coli. This review explores the potential of metabolic engineering in C. glutamicum for biosynthesis, highlighting its versatility as a cell factory and assessing optimization strategies for these pathways. Additionally, various metabolic engineering methods, including genomic editing and biosensors, and cofactor regeneration are evaluated, with a focus on C. glutamicum. Through comprehensive discussion, the review offers insights into future perspectives in production, aiding researchers and industry professionals in the field.
Influence of Different Types of Surfactants on the Flotation of Natural Quartz by Dodecylamine
Authors: Ao Yuxin , Han Cong , Kong Linghao , Shen Yanbai , Zhao Sikai , Liu Wengang , Zhou Shijie
Published: May 2024

The synergistic effect among flotation agents is why combined flotation agents exhibit superior performance compared to single flotation agents. This research investigates the influence of three surfactants with different charges of polar groups, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and octanol, combined with dodecylamine (DDA), on quartz flotation. Through the implementation of flotation tests, bubble–particle adhesion induction time testing, gas–liquid two-phase foam properties testing, and surface tension testing, it is revealed that substituting part of the DDA with these surfactants can either enhance or at least maintain the quartz recovery, affect the adhesion induction time, reduce the surface tension of the flotation system, and change the foaming performance and foam stability, depending on their mole ratio in the combined collector. Compared to DDA alone, combining CTAB or OCT with DDA can significantly increase quartz recovery, while SDS with DDA only yields an approximate recovery. Combining SDS or OCT with DDA can reduce the foam stability, while CTAB with DDA enhances the foam stability. The effect of the combination of surfactants and DDA on the adhesion induction time of quartz grains of different sizes with bubbles is the same; furthermore, there is a negative correlation between the adhesion induction time and the recovery, while the foaming properties and stability of foam are positively correlated with the recovery.
Aliquat 336 in Solvent Extraction Chemistry of Metallic ReO4− Anions
Authors: Atanassova Maria , Petkova Zhanina , Kurteva Vanya
Published: May 2024

A study of the liquid–liquid extraction of ReO4− anions from hydrochloric acid solutions using the ionic liquid Aliquat 336 (QCl: trialkyl(C8–C10)methylammonium chloride) via the well-known method of slope analysis along with the determination of the process parameters is presented. This study employs CCl4, CHCl3 and C6H12 as diluents. This study was carried out at room temperature (22 ± 2) °C and an aqueous/organic volumetric ratio of unity. The ligand effect on the complexation properties of ReO4− is quantitatively assessed in different organic media. The organic extract in chloroform media is examined through 1H, 13C and 15N NMR analysis as well as the HRMS technique and UV-Vis spectroscopy in order to view the anion exchange and ligand coordination in the organic phase solution. Final conclusions are given highlighting the role of the molecular diluent in complexation processes and selectivity involving ionic liquid ligands and various metal s-, p-, d- and f-cations. ReO4− ions have shown one of the best solvent extraction behaviors compared to other ions. For instance, the Aliquat 336 derivative bearing Cl− functions shows strongly enhanced extraction as well as pronounced separation abilities towards ReO4−.
LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS Identification and Characterization of Phenolic Compounds from Leaves of Australian Myrtles and Their Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Ali Akhtar , Mueed Abdul , Cottrell Jeremy J. , Dunshea Frank R.
Published: May 2024

Phenolic compounds, present in plants, provide substantial health advantages, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which enhance cardiovascular and cognitive well-being. Australia is enriched with a wide range of plants with phytopharmacological potential, which needs to be fully elucidated. In this context, we analyzed leaves of aniseed myrtle (Syzygium anisatum), lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora), and cinnamon myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia) for their complex phytochemical profile and antioxidant potential. LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS was applied for screening and characterizing these Australian myrtles’ phenolic compounds and the structure–function relation of phenolic compounds. This study identified 145 and quantified/semi-quantified 27 phenolic compounds in these Australian myrtles. Furthermore, phenolic contents (total phenolic content (TPC), total condensed tannins (TCT), and total flavonoids (TFC)) and antioxidant potential of phenolic extracts from the leaves of Australian myrtles were quantified. Aniseed myrtle was quantified with the highest TPC (52.49 ± 3.55 mg GAE/g) and total antioxidant potential than other selected myrtles. Catechin, epicatechin, isovitexin, cinnamic acid, and quercetin were quantified as Australian myrtles’ most abundant phenolic compounds. Moreover, chemometric analysis further validated the results. This study provides a new insight into the novel potent bioactive phenolic compounds from Australian myrtles that could be potentially useful for functional, nutraceutical, and therapeutic applications.
The Influence of Ligands on the Pd-Catalyzed Diarylation of Vinyl Esters
Authors: Brodzka Anna , Koszelewski Dominik , Trzeciak Anna , Ruzik Lena , Grela Malgorzata , Ostaszewski Ryszard
Published: May 2024

The impact of ligands on the palladium-catalyzed 1,2-diarylation reaction course is presented. The application of Pd-dmpzc as a catalyst provides an efficient, chemoselective and sustainable protocol for the synthesis of valuable 1,2-diphenylethyl acetates. The reaction is conducted in water under mild conditions. Reaction products can be easily separated from the reaction mixture and catalyst by simple extraction. What is more, the rational choice of catalyst significantly reduces the leaching of the metal into the product and its contamination (0.1 ppm). Efficient phase separation and ultralow Pd leaching enable the reuse of the water medium containing the Pd-dmpzc catalyst several times without a significant loss of activity and with even higher selectivity (from 95% to 100% in the third cycle). The recyclability of both the catalyst and the reaction medium together with high chemoselectivity and low palladium leaching reduces the amount of waste and the cost of the process, exhibiting an example of a sustainable and green methodology.
Composition of Lignocellulose Hydrolysate in Different Biorefinery Strategies: Nutrients and Inhibitors
Authors: Wang Yilan , Zhang Yuedong , Cui Qiu , Feng Yingang , Xuan Jinsong
Published: May 2024

The hydrolysis and biotransformation of lignocellulose, i.e., biorefinery, can provide human beings with biofuels, bio-based chemicals, and materials, and is an important technology to solve the fossil energy crisis and promote global sustainable development. Biorefinery involves steps such as pretreatment, saccharification, and fermentation, and researchers have developed a variety of biorefinery strategies to optimize the process and reduce process costs in recent years. Lignocellulosic hydrolysates are platforms that connect the saccharification process and downstream fermentation. The hydrolysate composition is closely related to biomass raw materials, the pretreatment process, and the choice of biorefining strategies, and provides not only nutrients but also possible inhibitors for downstream fermentation. In this review, we summarized the effects of each stage of lignocellulosic biorefinery on nutrients and possible inhibitors, analyzed the huge differences in nutrient retention and inhibitor generation among various biorefinery strategies, and emphasized that all steps in lignocellulose biorefinery need to be considered comprehensively to achieve maximum nutrient retention and optimal control of inhibitors at low cost, to provide a reference for the development of biomass energy and chemicals.
Advancements in Thermal Insulation through Ceramic Micro-Nanofiber Materials
Authors: Wang Wenqiang , Fu Qiuxia , Ge Jianlong , Xu Sijun , Liu Qixia , Zhang Junxiong , Shan Haoru
Published: May 2024

Ceramic fibers have the advantages of high temperature resistance, light weight, favorable chemical stability and superior mechanical vibration resistance, which make them widely used in aerospace, energy, metallurgy, construction, personal protection and other thermal protection fields. Further refinement of the diameter of conventional ceramic fibers to microns or nanometers could further improve their thermal insulation performance and realize the transition from brittleness to flexibility. Processing traditional two-dimensional (2D) ceramic fiber membranes into three-dimensional (3D) ceramic fiber aerogels could further increase porosity, reduce bulk density, and reduce solid heat conduction, thereby improving thermal insulation performance and expanding application areas. Here, a comprehensive review of the newly emerging 2D ceramic micro-nanofiber membranes and 3D ceramic micro-nanofiber aerogels is demonstrated, starting from the presentation of the thermal insulation mechanism of ceramic fibers, followed by the summary of 2D ceramic micro-nanofiber membranes according to different types, and then the generalization of the construction strategies for 3D ceramic micro-nanofiber aerogels. Finally, the current challenges, possible solutions, and future prospects of ceramic micro-nanofiber materials are comprehensively discussed. We anticipate that this review could provide some valuable insights for the future development of ceramic micro-nanofiber materials for high temperature thermal insulation.
Enrichment of Total Flavonoids and Licochalcone A from Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. Residue Based on a Combined Membrane–Macroporous Resin Process and a Quality-Control Study
Authors: Wang Xiaoxia , Zhang Zhou , Wang Yun , Wu Yayi , Miao Li , Ma Yue , Wei Lihua , Chen Wen , Li Hong
Published: May 2024

Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. produces a lot of licorice waste after water extraction, which also retains abundant total flavonoids (TFs) and licochalcone A. However, licorice residue is often wasted due to the lack of good utilization of resources in practical applications. This study first screened the optimal membrane pore size and resin type and then explored the mechanism and conditions of the adsorption of TFs on the resin. Then, different combinations and sequences of membrane and macroporous resin (MR) methods were investigated. It was found that using the membrane method for initial purification, followed by the MR method for further purification, yielded the best purification results. Next, response surface methodology was utilized to investigate the resin’s dynamic desorption conditions for TFs. Finally, the TF purity increased from 32.9% to 78.2% (2.38-fold) after purification by a combined membrane–MR process; the purity of licochalcone A increased from 11.63 mg·g−1 to 22.70 mg·g−1 (1.95-fold). This study verified the feasibility of enriching TFs and licochalcone A from licorice residue using a membrane–MR coupling method. In addition, a quality-control method was established using a fingerprinting method on the basis of ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) to ensure the stability of the enrichment process.
Co-Assembled Supramolecular Organohydrogels of Amphiphilic Zwitterion and Polyoxometalate with Controlled Microstructures
Authors: Wei Peilin , Duan Yu , Wang Chen , Sun Panpan , Sun Na
Published: May 2024

The organization of modifiable and functional building components into various superstructures is of great interest due to their broad applications. Supramolecular self-assembly, based on rationally designed building blocks and appropriately utilized driving forces, is a promising and widely used strategy for constructing superstructures with well-defined nanostructures and diverse morphologies across multiple length scales. In this study, two homogeneous organohydrogels with distinct appearances were constructed by simply mixing polyoxometalate (phosphomolybdic acid, HPMo) and a double-tailed zwitterionic quaternary ammonium amphiphile in a binary solvent of water and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The delicate balance between electrostatic attraction and repulsion of anionic HPMo clusters and zwitterionic structures drove them to co-assemble into homogeneous organohydrogels with diverse microstructures. Notably, the morphologies of the organohydrogels, including unilamellar vesicles, onion-like vesicles, and spherical aggregates, can be controlled by adjusting the ionic interactions between the zwitterionic amphiphiles and phosphomolybdic acid clusters. Furthermore, we observed an organohydrogel fabricated with densely stacked onion-like structures (multilamellar vesicles) consisting of more than a dozen layers at certain proportions. Additionally, the relationships between the self-assembled architectures and the intermolecular interactions among the polyoxometalate, zwitterionic amphiphile, and solvent molecules were elucidated. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of polyoxometalate-zwitterionic amphiphile co-assembly, which are essential for the development of materials with specific structures and emerging functionalities.
A Rapid and Accurate UHPLC Method for Determination of Monosaccharides in Polysaccharides of Different Sources of Radix Astragali and Its Immune Activity Analysis
Authors: Guo Yali , Wang Lijun , Liu Kaishuang , Li Meifang , Jin Yibao , Gu Lifei , Yu Xie-An , Wang Shuhong , Wang Ping , Wang Bing , Wang Tiejie
Published: May 2024

With the escalating demand for Astragalus polysaccharides products developed from Radix Astragali (RA), the necessity for quality control of polysaccharides in RA has become increasingly urgent. In this study, a specific method for the simultaneous determination of seven monosaccharides in polysaccharides extracted from Radix Astragali (RA) has been developed and validated using ultra-performance liquid chromatography equipped with an ultraviolet detector (UHPLC-UV) for the first time. The 1-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone (PMP) derivatizations were separated on a C18 column (Waters ACQUITYTM, Milfor, MA, USA, 1.8 µm, 2.1 × 100 mm) using gradient elution with a binary system of 5 mm ammonium formate (0.1% formic acid)-acetonitrile for 24 min. Additionally, seven monosaccharides showed good linear relationships (R2, 0.9971–0.9995), adequate precision (RSD < 4.21%), and high recoveries (RSD < 4.70%). The established method was used to analyze 109 batches of RA. Results showed that the Astragalus polysaccharides (APSs) mainly consist of mannose (Man), rhamnose (Rha), glucose (Glu), galactose (Gal), arabinose (Ara), xylose (Xyl); and fucose (Fuc); however, their composition was different among RA samples from different growth patterns, species, growth years, and origins, and the growth mode of RA and the age of wild-simulated RA can be accurately distinguished by principal component analysis (PCA). In addition, the immunological activity of APSs were also evaluated jointly by measurement of the NO release with RAW264.7, with the results showing that APSs have a promoting effect on the release of NO and exhibit a significant correlation with Man, Glu, Xyl, and Fuc contents. Accordingly, the new established monosaccharides analytical method and APS-immune activity determination in this study can provide a reference for quality evaluation and the establishment of quality standards for RA.
Can Plant Extracts Help Prevent Hair Loss or Promote Hair Growth? A Review Comparing Their Therapeutic Efficacies, Phytochemical Components, and Modulatory Targets
Authors: Choi Joon Yong , Boo Min Young , Boo Yong Chool
Published: May 2024

This narrative review aims to examine the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of plant extracts in preventing and treating alopecia (baldness). We searched and selected research papers on plant extracts related to hair loss, hair growth, or hair regrowth, and comprehensively compared the therapeutic efficacies, phytochemical components, and modulatory targets of plant extracts. These studies showed that various plant extracts increased the survival and proliferation of dermal papilla cells in vitro, enhanced cell proliferation and hair growth in hair follicles ex vivo, and promoted hair growth or regrowth in animal models in vivo. The hair growth-promoting efficacy of several plant extracts was verified in clinical trials. Some phenolic compounds, terpenes and terpenoids, sulfur-containing compounds, and fatty acids were identified as active compounds contained in plant extracts. The pharmacological effects of plant extracts and their active compounds were associated with the promotion of cell survival, cell proliferation, or cell cycle progression, and the upregulation of several growth factors, such as IGF-1, VEGF, HGF, and KGF (FGF-7), leading to the induction and extension of the anagen phase in the hair cycle. Those effects were also associated with the alleviation of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, cellular senescence, or apoptosis, and the downregulation of male hormones and their receptors, preventing the entry into the telogen phase in the hair cycle. Several active plant extracts and phytochemicals stimulated the signaling pathways mediated by protein kinase B (PKB, also called AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Wingless and Int-1 (WNT), or sonic hedgehog (SHH), while suppressing other cell signaling pathways mediated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). Thus, well-selected plant extracts and their active compounds can have beneficial effects on hair health. It is proposed that the discovery of phytochemicals targeting the aforementioned cellular events and cell signaling pathways will facilitate the development of new targeted therapies for alopecia.
Lactic Acid Bacteria-Derived Postbiotics as Adjunctive Agents in Breast Cancer Treatment to Boost the Antineoplastic Effect of a Conventional Therapeutic Comprising Tamoxifen and a New Drug Candidate: An Aziridine–Hydrazide Hydrazone Derivative
Authors: Wasiak Joanna , Głowacka Pola , Pudlarz Agnieszka , Pieczonka Adam M. , Dzitko Katarzyna , Szemraj Janusz , Witusik-Perkowska Monika
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. As about 20–30% of patients exhibiting ER-positive phenotype are resistant to hormonal treatment with the standard drug tamoxifen, finding new therapies is a necessity. Postbiotics, metabolites, and macromolecules isolated from probiotic bacteria cultures have been proven to have sufficient bioactivity to exert prohealth and anticancer effects, making them viable adjunctive agents for the treatment of various neoplasms, including breast cancer. In the current study, postbiotics derived from L. plantarum and L. rhamnosus cultures were assessed on an in vitro breast cancer model as potential adjunctive agents to therapy utilizing tamoxifen and a candidate aziridine–hydrazide hydrazone derivative drug. Cell viability and cell death processes, including apoptosis, were analyzed for neoplastic MCF-7 cells treated with postbiotics and synthetic compounds. Cell cycle progression and proliferation were analyzed by PI-based flow cytometry and Ki-67 immunostaining. Postbiotics decreased viability and triggered apoptosis in MCF-7, modestly affecting the cell cycle and showing a lack of negative impact on normal cell viability. Moreover, they enhanced the cytotoxic effect of tamoxifen and the new candidate drug toward MCF-7, accelerating apoptosis and the inhibition of proliferation. This illustrates postbiotics’ potential as natural adjunctive agents supporting anticancer therapy based on synthetic drugs.
Allelopathic Effects of Corn Straw and Its Water Extracts on Four Weed Species and Foxtail Millet
Authors: Dong Shuqi , Dong Jiaxin , Li Peiyao , Cao Bo , Liu Mengyao , Guo Zhenyu , Song Xie , Ma Yongqing , Hu Chunyan , Yuan Xiangyang
Published: May 2024

Straw covering is a protective tillage measure in agricultural production, but there is relatively little research on the allelopathic effects of corn straw on weeds and foxtail millet. This experiment studied the allelopathic effects of corn straw on four weeds (Chenopodium album, Setaria viridis, Echinochloa crus-galli and Amaranthus retroflexus) in foxtail millet fields, and also measured the growth indicators of foxtail millet. The study consisted of Petri dish and field experiments. Five treatments were used in the Petri dish experiment: clear water as control (0 g/L, TCK) and four types of corn straw water extracts. They were, respectively, the stock solution (100 g/L, T1), 10 X dilution (10 g/L, T2), 50 X dilution (2 g/L, T3), and 100 X dilution (1 g/L, T4) of corn straw water extracts. Additionally, seven treatments were set up in the field experiment, consisting of three corn straw covering treatments, with covering amounts of 3000 (Z1), 6000 (Z2) and 12,000 kg/ha (Z3), and four control treatments—one treatment with no corn straw cover (CK) and three treatments involving the use of a black film to create the same shading area as the corn straw covered area, with black film coverage areas of 50% (PZ1), 70% (PZ2), and 100% (PZ3), respectively. The results showed that the corn straw water extract reduced the germination rate of the seeds of the four weeds. The T1 treatment resulted in the allelopathic promotion of C. album growth but the inhibition of S. viridis, E. crus-galli, and A. retroflexus growth. Treatments T2, T3, and T4 all induced the allelopathic promotion of the growth of the four weeds. The order of the effects of the corn straw water extracts on the comprehensive allelopathy index of the four weed seeds was as follows: C. album > S. viridis > A. retroflexus > E. crus-galli. With an increase in the corn straw mulching amount, the density and total coverage of the four weeds showed a gradual downward trend, whereas the plant control effect and fresh weight control effect showed a gradual upward trend. All indices showed the best results under 12,000 kg/ha of mulching and returning to the field. Overall, corn straw coverage significantly impacted the net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate of foxtail millet and increased the yield of foxtail millet. Under coverages of 6000 and 12,000 kg/ha, the growth of foxtail millet is better. Based on our findings, we recommend a corn straw coverage of 12,000 kg/ha for the allelopathic control of weeds in foxtail millet fields.
Genome-Wide Identification of the Pectate Lyase Gene Family in Potato and Expression Analysis under Salt Stress
Authors: Wang Zhiqi , Liu Tao , Wu Wenbo , Shi Wenting , Shi Jian , Mo Fengyan , Du Chong , Wang Chaonan , Yang Zhongmin
Published: May 2024

Pectin is a structural polysaccharide and a major component of plant cell walls. Pectate lyases are a class of enzymes that degrade demethylated pectin by cleaving the α-1,4-glycosidic bond, and they play an important role in plant growth and development. Currently, little is known about the PL gene family members and their involvement in salt stress in potato. In this study, we utilized bioinformatics to identify members of the potato pectate lyase gene family and analyzed their gene and amino acid sequence characteristics. The results showed that a total of 27 members of the pectate lyase gene family were identified in potato. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that these genes were divided into eight groups. Analysis of their promoters indicated that several members’ promoter regions contained a significant number of hormone and stress response elements. Further, we found that several members responded positively to salt treatment under single salt and mixed salt stress. Since StPL18 exhibited a consistent expression pattern under both single and mixed salt stress conditions, its subcellular localization was determined. The results indicated that StPL18 is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. The results will establish a foundation for analyzing the functions of potato pectate lyase family members and their expression under salt stress.
Profiling the Bioactive Compounds in Broccoli Heads with Varying Organ Sizes and Growing Seasons
Authors: Shi Lu , Li Yahui , Lin Menghua , Liang Ying , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: May 2024

Broccoli is a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds, but how their contents are influenced by different growing seasons and variations in broccoli head sizes remains elusive. To address this question, we quantified sixteen known bioactive compounds and seven minerals in broccoli with varying head sizes obtained in two different growing seasons. Our results suggest that the contents of vitamin C, total phenols, carotenoids, and glucoraphanin were significantly higher in samples from the summer–autumn season, showing increases of 157.46%, 34.74%, 51.80%, and 17.78%, respectively, compared with those from the winter–spring season. Moreover, chlorogenic acid is a phenolic compound with relatively high contents among the six detected, while beta-sitosterol is the sterol with relatively high contents. Further, principal component analysis was conducted to rank the comprehensive scores of the profiles of phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and minerals, demonstrating that the broccoli samples grown during the summer–autumn season achieved the highest composite scores. Our results indicate that broccoli heads from the summer–autumn season are richer in a combination of bioactive compounds and minerals than those from the winter–spring season based on the composite score. This study extends our understanding of the nutrition profiles in broccoli and also lays the foundation for breeding broccoli varieties with improved nutrition quality.
Characterization of the Plastid Genomes of Four Caroxylon Thunb. Species from Kazakhstan
Authors: Almerekova Shyryn , Yermagambetova Moldir , Osmonali Bektemir , Vesselova Polina , Abugalieva Saule , Turuspekov Yerlan
Published: May 2024

The family Chenopodiaceae Vent. (Amaranthaceae s.l.) is known for its taxonomic complexity, comprising species of significant economic and ecological importance. Despite its significance, the availability of plastid genome data for this family remains limited. This study involved assembling and characterizing the complete plastid genomes of four Caroxylon Thunb. species within the tribe Salsoleae s.l., utilizing next-generation sequencing technology. We compared genome features, nucleotide diversity, and repeat sequences and conducted a phylogenetic analysis of ten Salsoleae s.l. species. The size of the plastid genome varied among four Caroxylon species, ranging from 150,777 bp (C. nitrarium) to 151,307 bp (C. orientale). Each studied plastid genome encoded 133 genes, including 114 unique genes. This set of genes includes 80 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Eight divergent regions (accD, atpF, matK, ndhF-ndhG, petB, rpl20-rpl22, rpoC2, and ycf3) were identified in ten Salsoleae s.l. plastid genomes, which could be potential DNA-barcoding markers. Additionally, 1106 repeat elements were detected, consisting of 814 simple sequence repeats, 92 tandem repeats, 88 forward repeats, 111 palindromic repeats, and one reverse repeat. The phylogenetic analysis provided robust support for the relationships within Caroxylon species. These data represent a valuable resource for future phylogenetic studies within the genus.
Glandular Trichomes and Essential Oils Variability in Species of the Genus Phlomis L.: A Review
Authors: Gostin Irina Neta , Blidar Cristian Felix
Published: May 2024

The genus Phlomis is one of the largest genera in the Lamiaceae family and includes species used since ancient times in traditional medicine, as flavoring for food and as fragrance in cosmetics. The secretory structures (represented by glandular trichomes) as well as the essential oils produced by them constitute the subject of this review. While representatives of this genus are not typically regarded as large producers of essential oils compared to other species of the Lamiaceae family, the components identified in their essential oils and their biological properties necessitate more investigation of this genus. A comprehensive analysis of the specialized literature was conducted for each of the 93 currently accepted species to identify all the results obtained by researchers regarding the secretory structures and essential oils of this genus up to the present time. Glandular trichomes, still insufficiently studied, present morphological peculiarities that differentiate this genus within the family: they are of two categories: capitate (with a wide distribution in this genus) and dendroid. The peltate trichomes, characteristic of many species of this family, are absent. The essential oils from the species of the genus Phlomis have been much more widely studied than the secretory structures. They show considerable variability depending on the species and the environmental conditions.
Variation in Root Biomass and Distribution Based on the Topography, Soil Properties, and Tree Influence Index: The Case of Mt. Duryun in Republic of Korea
Authors: Carvalho Julia Inacio , Carayugan Mark Bryan , Tran Lan Thi Ngoc , Hernandez Jonathan O. , Youn Woo Bin , An Ji Young , Park Byung Bae
Published: May 2024

Root biomass and distribution are influenced by abiotic factors, such as topography and soil physicochemical properties, determining belowground productivity. Hence, we investigated the variation in root biomass and vertical root distribution based on the topography, soil physicochemical properties, and tree influence index, and their relationships, across soil depths (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm) and topographical gradients in a warm-temperate forest in Mt. Duryun, Republic of Korea. Two contrasting research sites were established: a lower slope oriented at ≤3° and an upper slope with a slope of 30°. Each site comprised eleven 400 m2 sampling plots from which root samples from various diameter classes (<2 mm, 2–5 mm, 5–10 mm, and >10 mm) were collected. While the bulk density increased with soil depth in the lower slope, the organic matter, available phosphorus, Ca2+, and Mg2+ showed a reversed pattern. Linear mixed-effects models generally revealed significant negative correlations between root biomass and soil pH, total nitrogen, and cation exchange capacity, particularly in small roots (βstd = −1.03 to −1.51) and coarse roots (βstd = −6.30). Root biomass exhibited a 10–15% increase in the upper slope compared to the lower slope, particularly in fine (median = 52.0 g m2–65.64 g m2) and medium roots (median = 56.04 g m2–69.52 g m2) at a 0–20 cm soil depth. While no significant correlation between root biomass and the tree influence index was found on the lower slope, a different pattern was found on the upper slope. Our results indicate that the variation in root biomass and distribution can also be explained by the differences in the soil environment and topographical positions.
Preparation and Adsorption Performance of Boron Adsorbents Derived from Modified Waste Feathers
Authors: Li Dongxing , Jiang Hui , Luo Zhengwei , Geng Wenhua , Zhu Jianliang
Published: May 2024

This research focuses on modifying discarded feathers by grafting glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) onto their surface through thiolation, followed by an epoxy ring-opening reaction with N-methyl-D-glucamine (NMDG) to synthesize feather-based boron adsorbents. Optimization of the adsorbent preparation conditions was achieved through single-factor experiments, varying temperature, time, GMA concentration, and initiator dosage. The synthesized adsorbent (F-g-GMA-NMDG) underwent characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The adsorption behavior of the adsorbent was studied, and its boron adsorption capacity at different temperatures was determined through static adsorption kinetic curves. Analysis of adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics was conducted. Results indicate that the boron adsorption process by F-g-GMA-NMDG follows a pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption process is endothermic, with higher temperatures promoting adsorption efficiency. Gibbs free energy (ΔG) confirms the spontaneity of the adsorption process. Enhanced adsorption efficacy was observed under neutral and acidic pH conditions. After four cycles, the adsorbent maintained its adsorption efficiency, demonstrating its stability and potential for reuse. This study provides novel insights into both the treatment of discarded feathers and the development of boron adsorbents.
Impact of Molar Composition on the Functional Properties of Glutinous Rice Starch–Chitosan Blend: Natural-Based Active Coating for Extending Mango Shelf Life
Authors: Nitikornwarakul Chawakwan , Wangpradid Rodjanawan , Rakkapao Natthida
Published: May 2024

This study investigates natural-based blends of glutinous rice starch (GRS) and chitosan (CS), varying their molar composition (0:100, 30:70, 50:50, 70:30, and 100:0) to explore their interaction dynamics. Our findings illustrate the versatility of these blends in solution and film forms, offering applications across diverse fields. Our objective is to understand their impact on coatings designed to extend the post-harvest shelf life of mangoes. Results reveal that increasing chitosan content in GRS/CS blends enhances mechanical strength, hydrophobicity, and resistance to Colletotrichum gloeosporioides infection, a common cause of mango anthracnose. These properties overcome limitations of GRS films. Advanced techniques, including FTIR analysis and stereo imaging, confirmed robust interaction between GRS/CS blend films and mango cuticles, improving coverage with higher chitosan content. This comprehensive coverage reduces mango dehydration and respiration, thereby preserving quality and extending shelf life. Coating with a GRS/CS blend containing at least 50% chitosan effectively prevents disease progression and maintains quality over a 10-day storage period, while uncoated mangoes fail to meet quality standards within 2 days. Moreover, increasing the starch proportion in GRS/CS blends enhances film density, optical properties, and reduces reliance on acidic solvents, thereby minimizing undesirable changes in product aroma and taste.
Polyethylene Glycol-Modified Cationic Liposome as a Promising Nano Spray for Acute Pneumonia Treatment
Authors: Wang Kai , Chen Dagui , Zhang Chenxi , Lu Lu , Shang Fusheng , Li Yinghua
Published: May 2024

Acute pneumonia (AP), triggered primarily by pathogens like bacteria and viruses, is a leading cause of human mortality. Ribavirin, a broad-spectrum antiviral agent, plays a pivotal role in the treatment of AP. However, its therapeutic use is hindered by the need for high dosages and the associated cardiac and hepatic toxicities. In this study, we synthesized polyethylene glycol-modified cationic liposomes to encapsulate ribavirin (RBV-PCL) and formulated it into a spray, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of RBV through respiratory administration. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a compound known to induce AP models in animals, was utilized in our research. Successfully, we established an acute pneumonia model in mice using aerosol inhalation. Through animal experiments, we investigated the therapeutic effects of RBV-PCL on mice with AP. In vivo studies revealed promising results. RBV-PCL effectively prolonged the survival of mice with AP, significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and inhibited the infiltration of neutrophils in the lungs and spleens of mice. These findings suggest that RBV-PCL can effectively suppress the inflammatory response in mice with AP, thus holding significant potential as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of acute pneumonia.
Study on Phenol–Formaldehyde Resin–Montmorillonite Impregnation and Compression Modification of Chinese Fir
Authors: He Lei , Zhang Qian , Zhang Bengang , Qiu Hongyun , Guo Jie , Sun Fengwen , Jiang Zengfu , Zhou Weidong
Published: May 2024

In this study, a phenol–formaldehyde resin–montmorillonite intercalation composite solution was used as a modifier to treat Chinese fir via impregnation and compression. The basic characteristics and wettability of the PF (phenol–formaldehyde)–montmorillonite impregnation solution were analyzed. The effects of the solid content of PF, the quantity of montmorillonite, and the impregnation time on the impregnation weight gain of Chinese fir were studied through orthogonal experiments. The results showed that when the amount of montmorillonite was 1%, the wettability of the PF–montmorillonite impregnation solution performed the best, the curing time was short, and the curing strength was high. The optimal impregnation process consists of a PF solid content of 25%, an impregnation time of 120 min, and a montmorillonite ratio of 1%. Under these conditions, the modified Chinese fir was prepared via hot pressing. The effects of the addition of montmorillonite and different levels of compressibility on the physical and mechanical properties of modified wood were studied. The physical and mechanical properties were found to be better when the compression ratio was 33%: the density increased from 0.33 g/cm3 to 0.58 g/cm3; the surface hardness increased from 33.6 HD to 70.9 HD; the static bending strength increased from 60.4 MPa to 98.7 MPa; and the elastic modulus increased from 6 390 MPa to 11 498 MPa. After 30 days of release, the compression rebound rate was 3.97%. Meanwhile, the micromorphology and heat resistance of the impregnated compressed Chinese fir showed that the PF–montmorillonite impregnation solution entered into the cell cavity and intercellular space of the Chinese fir and formed a good composite, thus improving the water resistance, heat resistance, and physical and mechanical properties.
“Vulnerability” and Its Unintended Consequences
Authors: Skoglund Jeanette , Thørnblad Renee
Published: May 2024

“Vulnerability” is now a widely used term in different settings—from politics and academia to everyday life. In response, a growing body of research has emerged critiquing and challenging the use of the concept in the social sciences. In this paper, we explore the use of the term vulnerability in research on children in out-of-home care and discuss the possible negative consequences of this—for the people involved and for the knowledge produced. Showing some of the problems involved in classifying these children as “particularly vulnerable”, we argue that there is a need for more nuanced understandings of children growing up in out-of-home care.
Data-Driven Strategies for Complex System Forecasts: The Role of Textual Big Data and State-Space Transformers in Decision Support
Authors: Huo Huairong , Guo Wanxin , Yang Ruining , Liu Xuran , Xue Jingyi , Peng Qingmiao , Deng Yiwei , Sun Xinyi , Lv Chunli
Published: May 2024

In this research, an innovative state space-based Transformer model is proposed to address the challenges of complex system prediction tasks. By integrating state space theory, the model aims to enhance the capability to capture dynamic changes in complex data, thereby improving the accuracy and robustness of prediction tasks. Extensive experimental validations were conducted on three representative tasks, including legal case judgment, legal case translation, and financial data analysis to assess the performance and application potential of the model. The experimental results demonstrate significant performance improvements of the proposed model over traditional Transformer models and other advanced variants such as Bidirectional Encoder Representation from Transformers (BERT) and Finsformer across all evaluated tasks. Specifically, in the task of legal case judgment, the proposed model exhibited a precision of 0.93, a recall of 0.90, and an accuracy of 0.91, significantly surpassing the traditional Transformer model (with precision of 0.78, recall of 0.73, accuracy of 0.76) and performances of other comparative models. In the task of legal case translation, the precision of the proposed model reached 0.95, with a recall of 0.91 and an accuracy of 0.93, also outperforming other models. Likewise, in the task of financial data analysis, the proposed model also demonstrated excellent performance, with a precision of 0.94, recall of 0.90, and accuracy of 0.92. The state space-based Transformer model proposed not only theoretically expands the research boundaries of deep learning models in complex system prediction but also validates its efficiency and broad application prospects through experiments. These achievements provide new insights and directions for future research and development of deep learning models, especially in tasks requiring the understanding and prediction of complex system dynamics.
Adsorption of Cadmium and Lead Capacity and Environmental Stability of Magnesium-Modified High-Sulfur Hydrochar: Greenly Utilizing Chicken Feather
Authors: Deng Weiqi , Kuang Xubin , Xu Zhaoxin , Li Deyun , Li Yongtao , Zhang Yulong
Published: May 2024

Chicken feathers represent a viable material for producing biochar adsorbents. Traditional slow pyrolysis methods often result in sulfur element losses from chicken feathers, whereas hydrothermal reactions generate substantial amounts of nutrient-rich hydrothermal liquor. Magnesium-modified high-sulfur hydrochar MWF was synthesized through magnesium modification, achieving a S content of 3.68%. The maximum equilibrium adsorption amounts of MWF for Cd2+ and Pb2+ were 25.12 mg·g−1 and 70.41 mg·g−1, respectively, representing 4.00 times and 2.75 times of WF. Magnesium modification elevated the sulfur content, pH, ash content, and electronegativity of MWF. The primary mechanisms behind MWF’s adsorption of Cd2+ and Pb2+ involve magnesium ion exchange and complexation with C=O/O=C–O, quaternary N, and S functional groups. MWF maintains robust stability and antioxidative properties, even with low aromaticity levels. Given the lower energy consumption during hydrochar production, MWF offers notable carbon sequestration benefits. The hydrothermal solution derived from MWF is nutrient-rich. Following supplementation with inorganic fertilizer, the hydrothermal solution of MWF significantly enhanced bok choy growth compared to the control group. In general, adopting magnesium-modified hydrothermal reactions to produce hydrochar and converting the resultant hydrothermal solution into water-soluble fertilizer proves a viable strategy for the eco-friendly utilization of chicken feathers. This approach carries substantial value for heavy metal remediation and agricultural practices.