bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Coupled Poro-Elastic Fluid Flow Simulator for Naturally Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Abdel Azim Reda , Alatefi Saad , Alkouh Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Naturally fractured reservoirs are characterized by their complex nature due to the existence of natural fractures and fissures within the rock formations. These fractures can significantly impact the flow of fluids within the reservoir, making it difficult to predict and manage production. Therefore, efficient production from such reservoirs requires a deep understanding of the flow behavior via the integration of various geological, geophysical, and engineering data. Additionally, advanced simulation models can be used to predict reservoir behavior under different production scenarios and aid in decision making and effective management. Accordingly, this study presents a robust mathematical two-phase fluid flow model (FRACSIM) for the simulation of the flow behavior of naturally fractured reservoirs in a 3D space. The mathematical model is based on the finite element technique and implemented using the FORTRAN language within a poro-elastic framework. Fractures are represented by triangle elements, while tetrahedral elements represent the matrix. To optimize computational time, short to medium-length fractures adopt the permeability tensor approach, while large fractures are discretized explicitly. The governing equations for poro-elasticity are discretized in both space and time using a standard Galerkin-based finite element approach. The stability of the saturation equation solution is ensured via the application of the Galerkin discretization method. The 3D fracture model has been verified against Eclipse 100, a commercial software, via a well-test case study of a fractured basement reservoir to ensure its effectiveness. Additionally, the FRACSIM software successfully simulated a laboratory glass bead drainage test for two intersected fractures and accurately captured the flow pattern and cumulative production results. Furthermore, a sensitivity study of water injection using an inverted five-spot technique was tested on FRACSIM to assess the productivity of drilled wells in complex fractured reservoirs. The results indicate that FRACSIM can accurately predict flow behavior and subsequently be utilized to evaluate production performance in naturally fractured reservoirs.
Reevaluating Near-Infrared Reflectance as a Tool for the Study of Plant Water Status in Holm Oak (Quercus ilex subsp. rotundifolia)
Authors: Peguero-Pina José Javier , Sancho-Knapik Domingo , Ferrio Juan Pedro , López-Ballesteros Ana , Ruiz-Llata Marta , Gil-Pelegrín Eustaquio
Published: September 2023

Plant water status can be assessed through leaf spectral reflectance in the near-infrared (NIR), the “water bands”, considering indices that include the reflectance at a band absorbed by water over and another one as reference. We have assessed i/ the accuracy of reflectance at 1450, 1599 and 1940 nm without reference bands and ii/ the potential use of leaf water content index (LWCI) for the estimation of plant water status in holm oak, the main host plant for black truffle cultivation. We demonstrated that contact measurements of leaf reflectance in the “water bands” constitute an accurate and non-invasive estimator of relative water content (RWC) in holm oak, despite the absence of a reference wavelength, probably due to the low variation in leaf thickness under dehydration. The use of a reference wavelength, which is needed for remote sensing, diminished the accuracy of RWC estimation. Contrastingly, LWCI increased the accuracy of RWC estimation as well as a reference wavelength were used. However, LWCI required the reflectance value at full turgor, diminishing its potential for implementation at field level. In conclusion, this technique would allow the continuous monitoring of the physiological state of holm oak and intelligent water control in truffle cultivation.
Oxidative Stress Response of Probiotic Strain Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum GT15
Authors: Averina Olga V. , Kovtun Aleksey S. , Mavletova Dilara A. , Ziganshin Rustam H. , Danilenko Valery N. , Mihaylova Dasha , Blazheva Denica , Slavchev Aleksandar , Brazkova Mariya , Ibrahim Salam A. , Krastanov Albert
Published: September 2023

Bifidobacterium is a predominant and important genus in the bacterial population of the human gut microbiota. Despite the increasing number of studies on the beneficial functionality of bifidobacteria for human health, knowledge about their antioxidant potential is still insufficient. Several in vivo and in vitro studies of Bifidobacterium strains and their cellular components have shown good antioxidant capacity that provided a certain protection of their own and the host’s cells. Our work presents the data of transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses of the growing and stationary culture of the probiotic strain B. longum subsp. longum GT15 after exposure to hydrogen peroxide for 2 h and oxygen for 2 and 4 h. The results of the analysis of the sequenced genome of B. longum GT15 showed the presence of 16 gene-encoding proteins with known antioxidant functions. The results of the full transcriptomic analysis demonstrated a more than two-fold increase of levels of transcripts for eleven genes, encoding proteins with antioxidant functions. Proteomic data analysis showed an increased level of more than two times for glutaredoxin and thioredoxin after the exposure to oxygen, which indicates that the thioredoxin-dependent antioxidant system may be the major redox homeostasis system in B. longum bacteria. We also found that the levels of proteins presumably involved in global stress, amino acid metabolism, nucleotide and carbohydrate metabolism, and transport had significantly increased in response to oxidative stress. The metabolic fingerprint analysis also showed good discrimination between cells responding to oxidative stress and the untreated controls. Our results provide a greater understanding of the mechanism of oxidative stress response in B. longum and the factors that contribute to its survival in functional food products.
Influence of Soluble Fiber as a Carrier on Antioxidant and Physical Properties of Powders Produced Based on the Spray Drying of Malvae arboreae flos Aqueous Extracts
Authors: Lisiecka Katarzyna , Dziki Dariusz , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula , Świeca Michał , Różyło Renata
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of inulin and pectin, wherein pectin replaced inulin with weight ranging from 2% to 8%, as wall materials on various aspects: bioactive component content, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, bioavailability, powder recovery during the drying process, and selected physical characteristics of powders derived from Malvae arboreae flos aqueous extracts obtained through spray drying. Powders containing a soluble fraction of fiber demonstrated a recovery efficiency of over 50% during drying, along with low moisture content, water activity, and hygroscopicity, coupled with high solubility. The incorporation of pectin up to 8% did not significantly alter the color profile of the powders. However, at levels of 4% to 8% pectin, concave distortions and particle morphology cracks became noticeable, along with the potential to form agglomerates (evident when the span index ranged between 5.11 and 14.51). The substitution of inulin with pectin led to higher total contents of flavonoids (from 1.31% to 49.57% before digestion, and from 18.92% to 36.48% after digestion) and anthocyanins (from 45.79% to 78.56% before digestion, and from 65.45% to 521.81% after digestion) compared to samples containing only inulin as a carrier. Bioacceptability values exceeding 100% indicated effective preservation of compounds responsible for ferric-reducing antioxidant power, as well as the inhibition of xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase-2 across all samples.
Service Climate and Nurses’ Collaboration with Families of Older Patients in the Care Process during Hospitalization
Authors: Vinarski-Peretz Hedva , Mashiach-Eizenberg Michal , Idilbi Nasra , Halperin Dafna
Published: September 2023

This study focuses on the concrete role of the presence of a ward’s service climate in cultivating nurses’ collaboration with family members. Accordingly, this study examined the moderating role of the service climate in the link between nurses’ attitudes toward the family and their collaboration with family members in the care process. This is the second article of a series of studies we conducted among health staff in Israeli public hospitals. Relying on the patient- and family-centered care approach and using a cross-sectional study of 179 nurses from 13 internal medicine, surgical and geriatric wards at a large public hospital in Israel, we conducted a multiple regression analysis to test the contribution of all relationship variables to predicting nurses’ collaborative behavior with the family in the care process during elderly hospitalization. The findings indicate that service climate had a conditional moderating effect on the relationship between nurses’ perception of the family as a burden and their collaboration with the family in nursing care. Namely, in the absence of a targeted service climate, nurses form perceptions about the families as a burden, which in turn affects their distinct non-collaboration, and vice versa.
Assessment of Fatty Acid Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Mineral Composition in Hazelnut Genetic Resources: Implications for Nutritional Value and Breeding Programs
Authors: Yaman Mehmet , Balta Mehmet Fikret , Karakaya Orhan , Kaya Tuncay , Necas Tomas , Yildiz Ercan , Dirim Emine
Published: September 2023

This study was carried out to determine the fatty acid composition, bioactive compounds, and mineral element content of standard hazelnut cultivars and accessions from the Eastern Black Sea region. A wide variation was determined in terms of the traits examined between hazelnut accessions and cultivars. Most of the accessions investigated had higher values of bioactive compounds, oleic acid, stearic acid, Na, and Ca than the standard cultivars. Among accessions investigated, S-1 had the highest total phenolics and antioxidants (557.3 mg/100 g and 0.53 mmol/100 g) while P-4 had the lowest (307.3 mg/100 g and 0.22 mmol/100 g). The highest oleic acid content was determined in P-2 (87.16%); the lowest was in H-1 (71.24%). Linoleic acid ranged from 4.35% (P-1) to 18.06% (H-1). P-2 (3349 mg/kg and 2464 mg/kg, respectively) had the highest K and P contents. The highest Mg content was found in S-1 (1787 mg/kg). The highest value of Ca and Na was determined in P-1 (2701 mg/kg and 412 mg/kg, respectively). Principal component analysis revealed that the traits studied could effectively explain the variability among hazelnut genetic sources. First, three components explained about 60% of total variation. PC1 was related to arachidonic acid and most of the mineral elements (P, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Cd, Ni, and S), and explained 27.6% of the total variation. PC2 explained 18.3% of the total variation, and was mainly related to oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid, as well as Ca. PC3 was related to total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and palmitic acid, and explained 14.5% of total variation. The oleic acid had a strong negative correlation with linoleic acid (−0.99 ***) and linolenic acid (−0.95 ***). A strong positive correlation was determined between antioxidant activity and total flavonoids (r = 0.95 ***). K content showed a strong positive correlation with P (r = 0.92 ***) and Mg (r = 0.82 ***) contents. A strong positive correlation was also determined between P and Mg (r = 0.91***). These findings revealed that many of the accessions investigated were a good source of fatty acids and bioactive compounds. As a conclusion, most accessions with superior nutritional content can be evaluated as genetic material for the development of new cultivars in hazelnut breeding programs.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Identified Genes Associated with Fruit Size in Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Zheng Yuxin , Ma Qilong , Mao Lianzhen , Wu Zhuoxuan , Liu Zhoubin , Zou Xuexiao , Yang Bozhi
Published: September 2023

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is one of the most widely grown vegetable crops in China, with widespread cultivation worldwide. Fruit weight (size) is a complex trait controlled by multiple factors and is an essential determinant of pepper yield. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome of two pepper recombinant lines with different fruit weights, ‘B302’ and ‘B400’, at five developmental stages to reveal some of the differentially expressed genes and mechanisms controlling fruit weight. The results showed that 21,878 differential genes were identified between the two specimens. Further analysis of the differentially expressed genes revealed that Boron transporter 4 was significantly highly expressed in the large-fruited pepper and almost not expressed at all in the small-fruited pepper. CaAUX1, CaAUX/IAA, CaGH3, CaSAUR, and other related genes in the Auxin signal transduction pathway were highly expressed in the large-fruited pepper but significantly reduced in the small-fruited pepper. In addition, a comparison of differentially expressed transcription factors at different times revealed that transcription factors such as CaMADS3, CaAGL8, CaATHB13, and CaATHB-40 were highly differentially expressed in the large-fruited pepper, and these transcription factors may be related to pepper fruit expansion. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), the MEorangered4 module was shown to have a highly significant correlation with fruit weight, and the key modules were analyzed by constructing the hub core gene network interactions map and core genes regulating fruit weight such as APETALA 2 were found. In conclusion, we find that the expression of relevant genes at different developmental stages was different in ‘B302’ and ‘B400’, and it was hypothesized that these genes play essential roles in the development of fruit size and that the interactions occurring between transcription factors and phytohormones may regulate the development of fruit size.
Telerehabilitation in Low-Resource Settings to Improve Postural Balance in Older Adults: A Non-Inferiority Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial Protocol
Authors: Gatica-Rojas Valeska , Cartes-Velásquez Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Background: Several exercise methods with virtual reality devices have been used in treatments for older adults and patients with neurodegenerative diseases, although the mechanisms continue to be elucidated. The aim of this study is to establish the feasibility and effectiveness of a rehabilitation programme using low-cost virtual reality aimed at improving postural balance in older adults. It also seeks to compare low-cost virtual reality under two delivery modalities, telerehabilitation (TR) in elderly centres and face-to-face (FtF) in rehabilitation centres. Methods: The study is set up as a non-inferiority two-arm parallel triple-blind randomised controlled clinical trial. Sixteen persons aged 65 to 75-years-old will be included. Eighteen Wii therapy sessions (25–30 min) will be provided through both FtF (control group, n = 8) and TR (exposure group, n = 8), both with a Nintendo Wii balance board. Data will be collected at baseline (week 0), during the Wii therapy sessions (weeks 2, 4, and 6), and during the follow-up (weeks 8 and 10). The primary outcome will be the area of centre-of-pressure (CoP) sway; secondary outcomes will be medial–lateral and anterior–posterior velocity and standard deviation of CoP; and tertiary outcomes will be clinical measures: single-leg stand, timed up-and-go tests, Barthel Index, and Tinetti’s scale. Statistical analyses will be performed using SPSS 20.00 for Windows. The trial adheres to the Declaration of Helsinki and the Chilean laws of rights and duties of the patient and research in humans. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the University of Talca. Written informed consent will be obtained from participants. Discussion: In this trial, older adults from a Chilean city with a large rural and underserved population share will be included to test the feasibility and effectiveness of a rehabilitation programme using low-cost VR aimed at improving postural balance to generate evidence to support decision makers generating public health policy. Trial registration: Australian New Zeeland Clinical Trials Registration (ACTRN12621001380886).
A New Vision for IJERPH—A Transdisciplinary Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Authors: Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: September 2023

Since its establishment in 2004, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH) [...]
The Inhibition of the FGFR/PI3K/Akt Axis by AZD4547 Disrupts the Proangiogenic Microenvironment and Vasculogenic Mimicry Arising from the Interplay between Endothelial and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Morales-Guadarrama Gabriela , Méndez-Pérez Edgar A. , García-Quiroz Janice , Avila Euclides , Ibarra-Sánchez María J. , Esparza-López José , García-Becerra Rocío , Larrea Fernando , Díaz Lorenza
Published: September 2023

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM), a process in which aggressive cancer cells form tube-like structures, plays a crucial role in providing nutrients and escape routes. Highly plastic tumor cells, such as those with the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) phenotype, can develop VM. However, little is known about the interplay between the cellular components of the tumor microenvironment and TNBC cells’ VM capacity. In this study, we analyzed the ability of endothelial and stromal cells to induce VM when interacting with TNBC cells and analyzed the involvement of the FGFR/PI3K/Akt pathway in this process. VM was corroborated using fluorescently labeled TNBC cells. Only endothelial cells triggered VM formation, suggesting a predominant role of paracrine/juxtacrine factors from an endothelial origin in VM development. Via immunocytochemistry, qPCR, and secretome analyses, we determined an increased expression of proangiogenic factors as well as stemness markers in VM-forming cancer cells. Similarly, endothelial cells primed by TNBC cells showed an upregulation of proangiogenic molecules, including FGF, VEGFA, and several inflammatory cytokines. Endothelium-dependent TNBC-VM formation was prevented by AZD4547 or LY294002, strongly suggesting the involvement of the FGFR/PI3K/Akt axis in this process. Given that VM is associated with poor clinical prognosis, targeting FGFR/PI3K/Akt pharmacologically may hold promise for treating and preventing VM in TNBC tumors.
Light-Sensitive Open Channel Block of Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors by Quaternary Ammonium Azobenzene Derivatives
Authors: Nikolaev Maxim , Tikhonov Denis
Published: September 2023

Glutamate ionotropic receptors mediate fast excitation processes in the central nervous system of vertebrates and play an important role in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Here, we describe the action of two azobenene-containing compounds, AAQ (acrylamide–azobenzene–quaternary ammonium) and QAQ (quaternary ammonium–azobenzene–quaternary ammonium), which produced rapid and fully reversible light-dependent inhibition of glutamate ionotropic receptors. The compounds demonstrated voltage-dependent inhibition with only minor voltage-independent allosteric action. Calcium-impermeable AMPA receptors had weaker sensitivity compared to NMDA and calcium-permeable AMPA receptors. We further revealed that the compounds bound to NMDA and calcium-permeable AMPA receptors in different modes. They were able to enter the wide selectivity filter of AMPA receptors, and strong negative voltages caused permeation into the cytoplasm. The narrow selectivity filter of the NMDA receptors did not allow the molecules to bypass them; therefore, QAQ and AAQ bound to the shallow channel site and prevented channel closure by a foot-in-the-door mechanism. Computer simulations employing available AMPA and NMDA receptor structures readily reproduced the experimental findings, allowing for the structure-based design of more potent and selective drugs in the future. Thus, our work creates a framework for the development of light-sensitive blockers of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, which are desirable tools for neuroscience.
From Benznidazole to New Drugs: Nanotechnology Contribution in Chagas Disease
Authors: Gomes Daniele Cavalcante , Medeiros Thayse Silva , Alves Pereira Eron Lincoln , da Silva João Felipe Oliveira , de Freitas Oliveira Johny W. , Fernandes-Pedrosa Matheus de Freitas , de Sousa da Silva Marcelo , da Silva-Júnior Arnóbio Antônio
Published: September 2023

Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Benznidazole and nifurtimox are the two approved drugs for their treatment, but both drugs present side effects and efficacy problems, especially in the chronic phase of this disease. Therefore, new molecules have been tested with promising results aiming for strategic targeting action against T. cruzi. Several studies involve in vitro screening, but a considerable number of in vivo studies describe drug bioavailability increment, drug stability, toxicity assessment, and mainly the efficacy of new drugs and formulations. In this context, new drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology systems, have been developed for these purposes. Some nanocarriers are able to interact with the immune system of the vertebrate host, modulating the immune response to the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms. In this overview of nanotechnology-based delivery strategies for established and new antichagasic agents, different strategies, and limitations of a wide class of nanocarriers are explored, as new perspectives in the treatment and monitoring of Chagas disease.
Metabolic and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Different Metabolite Biosynthesis Profiles between Purple and Green Pak Choi
Authors: Wang Jinglei , Hu Tianhua , Wang Yidi , Wang Wuhong , Hu Haijiao , Wei Qingzhen , Yan Yaqin , Bao Chonglai
Published: September 2023

Pak choi is one of the most important leafy vegetables planted in East Asia and provides essential nutrients for the human body. Purple pak choi differs mainly in leaf colour but exhibits distinct nutritional profiles from green pak choi. In this study, we performed metabolic and transcriptomic analyses to uncover the mechanisms underlying the differences in metabolite biosynthesis profiles between the two pak choi varieties. Metabolite profiling revealed significant differences in the levels of metabolites, mainly amino acids and their derivatives and flavonoids. Furthermore, 34 flavonoids significantly differed between green and purple pak choi leaves, and cyanidin and its derivative anthocyanins were abundant in purple pak choi. In addition, we found that the structural genes CHS, DFR, ANS, and UGT75C1, as well as the transcription factor MYB2, play a major role in anthocyanin synthesis. These results provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying leaf pigmentation in pak choi and offer a platform for assessing related varieties.
Microbiomes, Their Function, and Cancer: How Metatranscriptomics Can Close the Knowledge Gap
Authors: Aitmanaitė Lina , Širmonaitis Karolis , Russo Giancarlo
Published: September 2023

The interaction between the microbial communities in the human body and the onset and progression of cancer has not been investigated until recently. The vast majority of the metagenomics research in this area has concentrated on the composition of microbiomes, attempting to link the overabundance or depletion of certain microorganisms to cancer proliferation, metastatic behaviour, and its resistance to therapies. However, studies elucidating the functional implications of the microbiome activity in cancer patients are still scarce; in particular, there is an overwhelming lack of studies assessing such implications directly, through analysis of the transcriptome of the bacterial community. This review summarises the contributions of metagenomics and metatranscriptomics to the knowledge of the microbial environment associated with several cancers; most importantly, it highlights all the advantages that metatranscriptomics has over metagenomics and suggests how such an approach can be leveraged to advance the knowledge of the cancer bacterial environment.
COVID-19 Infection during Pregnancy: Disruptions in Lipid Metabolism and Implications for Newborn Health
Authors: Frankevich Natalia , Tokareva Alisa , Chagovets Vitaly , Starodubtseva Natalia , Dolgushina Natalia , Shmakov Roman , Sukhikh Gennady , Frankevich Vladimir
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised questions about indirect impact in pregnant women on the development of their future children. Investigating the characteristics of lipid metabolism in the “mother–placenta–fetus” system can give information about the pathophysiology of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy. A total of 234 women were included in study. Maternal plasma, cord blood, and amniotic fluid lipidome were analyzed using HPLC-MS/MS. Differences in lipid profile were searched by Mann–Whitney and Kruskall–Wallis test, and diagnostic model based on logistic regression were built by AIC. Elevated levels of lysophospholipids, triglycerides, sphingomyelins, and oxidized lipids were registered in patients’ maternal and cord plasma after COVID-19 infection. An increase in maternal plasma sphingomyelins and oxidized lipids was observed in cases of infection during the second trimester. In amniotic fluid, compared to the control group, nine lipids were reduced and six were elevated. Levels of phosphoglycerides, lysophosphoglycerides, and phosphatidylinositols decreased during infection in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. A health diagnostic model for newborns based on maternal plasma was developed for each group and exhibited good diagnostic value (AUC > 0.85). Maternal and cord plasma’s lipidome changes during delivery, which are associated with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, are synergistic. The most significant disturbances occur with infections in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Roles of Stress Response in Autophagy Processes and Aging-Related Diseases
Authors: Watanabe Yoshihisa , Taguchi Katsutoshi , Tanaka Masaki
Published: September 2023

The heat shock factor 1 (HSF1)-mediated stress response pathway and autophagy processes play important roles in the maintenance of proteostasis. Autophagy processes are subdivided into three subtypes: macroautophagy, chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), and microautophagy. Recently, molecular chaperones and co-factors were shown to be involved in the selective degradation of substrates by these three autophagy processes. This evidence suggests that autophagy processes are regulated in a coordinated manner by the HSF1-mediated stress response pathway. Recently, various studies have demonstrated that proteostasis pathways including HSF1 and autophagy are implicated in longevity. Furthermore, they serve as therapeutic targets for aging-related diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In the future, these studies will underpin the development of therapies against various diseases.
TDP-43 Epigenetic Facets and Their Neurodegenerative Implications
Authors: Gimenez Juliette , Spalloni Alida , Cappelli Sara , Ciaiola Francesca , Orlando Valerio , Buratti Emanuele , Longone Patrizia
Published: September 2023

Since its initial involvement in numerous neurodegenerative pathologies in 2006, either as a principal actor or as a cofactor, new pathologies implicating transactive response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) are regularly emerging also beyond the neuronal system. This reflects the fact that TDP-43 functions are particularly complex and broad in a great variety of human cells. In neurodegenerative diseases, this protein is often pathologically delocalized to the cytoplasm, where it irreversibly aggregates and is subjected to various post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, polyubiquitination, and cleavage. Until a few years ago, the research emphasis has been focused particularly on the impacts of this aggregation and/or on its widely described role in complex RNA splicing, whether related to loss- or gain-of-function mechanisms. Interestingly, recent studies have strengthened the knowledge of TDP-43 activity at the chromatin level and its implication in the regulation of DNA transcription and stability. These discoveries have highlighted new features regarding its own transcriptional regulation and suggested additional mechanistic and disease models for the effects of TPD-43. In this review, we aim to give a comprehensive view of the potential epigenetic (de)regulations driven by (and driving) this multitask DNA/RNA-binding protein.
Integrated Transcriptome and Proteome Analysis Revealed the Regulatory Mechanism of Hypocotyl Elongation in Pakchoi
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Xi Dandan , Gao Lu , Zhu Hongfang , Yang Xiuke , Song Xiaoming , Zhang Changwei , Miao Liming , Zhang Dingyu , Zhang Zhaohui , Hou Xilin , Zhu Yuying , Wei Min
Published: September 2023

Hypocotyl length is a critical determinant for the efficiency of mechanical harvesting in pakchoi production, but the knowledge on the molecular regulation of hypocotyl growth is very limited. Here, we report a spontaneous mutant of pakchoi, lhy7.1, and identified its characteristics. We found that it has an elongated hypocotyl phenotype compared to the wild type caused by the longitudinal growth of hypocotyl cells. Different light quality treatments, transcriptome, and proteomic analyses were performed to reveal the molecular mechanisms of hypocotyl elongation. The data showed that the hypocotyl length of lhy7.1 was significantly longer than that of WT under red, blue, and white lights but there was no significant difference under dark conditions. Furthermore, we used transcriptome and label-free proteome analyses to investigate differences in gene and protein expression levels between lhy7.1 and WT. At the transcript level, 4568 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, which were mainly enriched in “plant hormone signal transduction”, “photosynthesis”, “photosynthesis–antenna proteins”, and “carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms” pathways. At the protein level, 1007 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified and were mainly enriched in photosynthesis-related pathways. The comprehensive transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed a regulatory network of hypocotyl elongation involving plant hormone signal transduction and photosynthesis-related pathways. The findings of this study help elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of hypocotyl elongation in lhy7.1.
Physiological, Proteomic, and Resin Yield-Related Genes Expression Analysis Provides Insights into the Mechanisms Regulating Resin Yield in Masson Pine
Authors: Li Zhengchun , Zhou Zijing , Hou Qiandong , Shen Luonan , Zhao Hong , Wen Xiaopeng
Published: September 2023

Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) is an important resin-producing conifer species in China. Resin yield is a highly heritable trait and varies greatly among different genotypes. However, the mechanisms regulating the resin yield of masson pine remain largely unknown. In this study, physiological, proteomic, and gene expression analysis was performed on xylem tissues of masson pine with high and low resin yield. Physiological investigation showed that the activity of terpene synthase, as well as the contents of soluble sugar, jasmonic acid (JA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), gibberellins (GA1, GA4, GA9, GA19, and GA20), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and abscisic acid (ABA) were significantly increased in the high yielder, whereas sucrose and salicylic acid (SA) were significantly decreased compared with the low one. A total of 2984 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in four groups, which were mainly enriched in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, carbohydrate metabolism, phytohormone biosynthesis, glutathione metabolism, and plant-pathogen interaction. Integrated physiological and proteomic analysis revealed that carbohydrate metabolism, terpenoid biosynthesis, resistance to stress, as well as JA and GA biosynthesis and signaling, play key roles in regulating resin yield. A series of proteins associated with resin yield, e.g., terpene synthase proteins (TPSs), ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABCs), glutathione S-transferase proteins (GSTs), and heat shock proteins (HSPs), were identified. Resin yield-related gene expression was also associated with resin yield. Our study unveils the implicated molecular mechanisms regulating resin yield and is of pivotal significance to breeding strategies of high resin-yielding masson pine cultivars.
Enzymes Dysregulation in Cancer: From Diagnosis to Therapeutical Approaches
Authors: Pozzi Valentina , Campagna Roberto , Sartini Davide , Emanuelli Monica
Published: September 2023

The metabolic reprogramming that occurs in cancer cells is a hallmark of cancer [...]
A Literature Survey on Word Sense Disambiguation for the Hindi Language
Authors: Gujjar Vinto , Mago Neeru , Kumari Raj , Patel Shrikant , Chintalapudi Nalini , Battineni Gopi
Published: September 2023

Word sense disambiguation (WSD) is a process used to determine the most appropriate meaning of a word in a given contextual framework, particularly when the word is ambiguous. While WSD has been extensively studied for English, it remains a challenging problem for resource-scarce languages such as Hindi. Therefore, it is crucial to address ambiguity in Hindi to effectively and efficiently utilize it on the web for various applications such as machine translation, information retrieval, etc. The rich linguistic structure of Hindi, characterized by complex morphological variations and syntactic nuances, presents unique challenges in accurately determining the intended sense of a word within a given context. This review paper presents an overview of different approaches employed to resolve the ambiguity of Hindi words, including supervised, unsupervised, and knowledge-based methods. Additionally, the paper discusses applications, identifies open problems, presents conclusions, and suggests future research directions.
Honey vs. Mite—A Trade-Off Strategy by Applying Summer Brood Interruption for Varroa destructor Control in the Mediterranean Region
Authors: Kovačić Marin , Uzunov Aleksandar , Tlak Gajger Ivana , Pietropaoli Marco , Soroker Victoria , Adjlane Noureddine , Benko Valerija , Charistos Leonidas , Dall’Olio Raffaele , Formato Giovanni , Hatjina Fani , Malagnini Valeria , Freda Fabrizio , Otmi Asaf , Puškadija Zlatko , Villar Claudio , Büchler Ralph
Published: September 2023

In this study, we investigated the effect of queen caging on honey bee colonies’ post-treatment development and the optimal timing of method application on honey production during the main summer nectar flow. We conducted the study in nine apiaries (N = 9) across six Mediterranean countries, with a total of 178 colonies. The colonies were divided into three test groups: QC1, QC2, and C. The QC1 group involved queens caged for a total of 28 days before the expected harvesting day. In the QC2 group, queens were caged for 28 days, but only 14 days before the expected harvesting day. The C group consisted of queens that were not caged, and the colonies received common local treatments. In both the QC1 and QC2 groups, the colonies were treated with a 4.2% oxalic acid (OA) solution by trickling after the queen release. Our findings revealed no significant adverse effects (p > 0.05) on colony strength at the end of the study resulting from queen caging. However, significantly lower amounts of honey were extracted from the QC1 group compared to both the QC2 group (p = 0.001) and the C group (p = 0.009). Although there were no initial differences in Varroa destructor infestation between the groups, ten weeks later, a significantly higher infestation was detected in the C group compared to both the QC1 group (p < 0.01) and the QC2 group (p = 0.003). Overall, our study demonstrates that queen caging, in combination with the use of OA, is an effective treatment for controlling V. destructor. However, the timing of caging plays a crucial role in honey production outcomes.
Active Disturbance Rejection Control Method for Marine Permanent-Magnet Propulsion Motor Based on Improved ESO and Nonlinear Switching Function
Authors: Guo Haohao , Xiang Tianxiang , Liu Yancheng , Zhang Qiaofen , Liu Siyuan , Guan Boyang
Published: September 2023

In the control of marine permanent-magnet propulsion motors, active disturbance rejection control has attracted much attention because it can deal with external load disturbances and uncertainties of motor parameters at the same time. However, the conventional second-order ADRC has the problem of slow disturbance observation speed. To this end, this paper proposes an improved third-order extended state observer using the proportional–integral disturbance update law to improve the tracking performance and anti-external disturbance ability of the motor control system. Then, aiming at the problem that the structure does not effectively use the current information, resulting in large speed fluctuations when the load changes, the measured value of the q-axis current is used as the disturbance feedforward compensation item to further improve the load disturbance suppression ability of the motor. Finally, in order to suppress the influence of the current periodic disturbance caused by unmodeled dynamics on the steady-state accuracy of the motor, a nonlinear switching function with bounded gain and an IIR low-pass filter are designed to suppress the periodic disturbance without affecting the dynamic performance of the system. Combined with the established ship propeller load model, the effectiveness of the method is verified on the motor experimental platform: When suddenly changing 75% of the propeller load, the motor speed decreases by about 20%, and the adjustment time is 0.1 s, which improves the performance by more than 70% compared to PI control and conventional ADRC methods.
Genomic Sequence Resource of Talaromyces albobiverticillius, the Causative Pathogen of Pomegranate Pulp Rot Disease
Authors: Wang Tan , Chen Shuchang , Niu Qiuhong , Xu Guangling , Lu Chenxu , Zhang Jin
Published: September 2023

Talaromyces albobiverticillius, a prominent pathogen responsible for pomegranate pulp rot disease, inflicts significant damage on Punica granatum L. Besides its pathogenicity, this fungus possesses the potential to produce substantial amounts of red pigments, making it promising for industrial applications. This study presents the genome annotation of T. albobiverticillius field strain Tp-2, isolated from pomegranates. The genome assembly, generated through a combination of Oxford Nanopore and Illumina sequencing reads, yielded a high-quality assembly with 14 contigs, featuring an N50 length of 4,594,200 bp. The complete genome of strain Tp-2 spans 38,354,882 bp, with a GC content of 45.78%. Importantly, the assembly exhibits remarkable integrity, with 98.3% of complete Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs validating genome completeness. Genome prediction analysis reveals the presence of 10,380 protein-coding genes. To our knowledge, this study is the first report on the genome sequence of T. albobiverticillius, offering valuable insights into its genetic variation and molecular mechanisms of pigment production.
Neuroprotective Effects of Sparassis crispa Ethanol Extract through the AKT/NRF2 and ERK/CREB Pathway in Mouse Hippocampal Cells
Authors: Pak Malk Eun , Li Wei
Published: September 2023

Sparassis crispa, known as the “Cauliflower mushroom”, is an edible medicinal fungus found in Asia, Europe, and North America. Its fruiting bodies contain active biological and pharmacological ingredients with antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of various Sparassis crispa extract against glutamate-induced toxicity and oxidative stress in hippocampal HT22 cells. Cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) analyses served to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of Sparassis crispa ethanol extract (SCE) and their fractions partitioned with ethyl acetate (EtOAc; SCE-E) and water (SCE-W) in HT22 cells. SCE and SCE-E treatment reduced glutamate-induced cell death and ROS generation. SCE-E reduced apoptosis and ROS levels by regulating anti-apoptotic proteins. Under glutamate treatment, SCE-E activated nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and regulated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and AKT signals at late stages. SCE-E increased the protein expression of cAMP response element binding (CREB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), and decreased the Nrf2 protein expression. Moreover, co-treatment of SCE-E and wortmannin did not activate Nrf2 expression. Thus, the neuroprotective effect of SCE-E is likely due to Nrf2 and CREB activation through AKT and ERK phosphorylation, which effectively suppress glutamate-induced oxidative stress in HT22 cells. Accordingly, a daily supplement of SCE-E could become a potential treatment for oxidative-stress-related neurological diseases.
Impact of Interaction Effects between Visual and Auditory Signs on Consumer Purchasing Behavior Based on the AISAS Model
Authors: Li Hui , Pan Younghwan
Published: September 2023

This study, based on the AISAS model, explores the impact of the interaction effect between visual and auditory signals on consumer purchase behavior. Using experimental methods, 120 participants were randomly assigned to four different visual and auditory signal combinations, and their purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior were measured. The results show that the interaction effect between visual and auditory signals has a significant impact on both purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior, and there is a significant positive relationship. Specifically, when visual and auditory signals are mutually consistent, consumers have the highest purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior; when both visual and auditory signals are absent, consumers have the lowest purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior; when either the visual or auditory signal is missing, consumers’ purchase intentions and actual purchase behavior are between the two extremes. This study provides a new perspective for understanding consumers’ decision-making processes in multi-sensory environments and offers valuable insights for the development of marketing strategies.
Spatiotemporal Changes and Influencing Factors of Rural Settlements in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River Region, 1990–2020
Authors: Yao Xiaowei , Wu Di
Published: September 2023

China has experienced rapid urbanization, causing dramatic changes to the patterns of urban and rural land use relationships. This paper analyzes the spatiotemporal characteristics of rural settlements in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River region (MRYRR) using remote sensing monitoring data from 1990 to 2020 and reveals the influencing factors of spatiotemporal changes. The research found that (1) the overall increase in the quantity of rural settlements in the MRYRR between 1990 and 2020 was 504.70 km2. The area of transfer of other land use types to rural settlement was 1382.57 km2, of which 78.55% came from arable land and 16.62% came from forests; the area of rural settlement transfer to other land use types was 867.24 km2, of which 66.27% was reclaimed as arable land and 8.48% was transferred into urban built-ups. Changes in different stages and regions are diversified. (2) The spatial layout of rural settlements showed no significant differences in the MRYRR between 1990 and 2020, with a cluster distribution of “five main nuclei and many secondary nuclei” and a spatial distribution of “gathering in the north and east, while scattered in the south and west”. (3) The level of fragmentation of rural settlements in the MRYRR has greatly decreased since 1990, with the average patch size expanding significantly. The patch complexity of rural settlements fluctuated moderately, but the connectivity between patches continued to increase, and their distribution became more clustered. (4) Social and economic factors, including rural electricity consumption, the output value of the primary industry, net income per rural resident, urbanization rate, and the effective irrigated area, most strongly impacted the changes in rural settlements in the MRYRR. The research can be utilized as a guide for reconstructing the pattern of rural land use to promote sustainable rural revitalization.
Effect of Cold Rolling Reduction Rate on the Microstructure and Properties of Q&P Steel with a Ferrite-Pearlite Initial Structure
Authors: Wang Shengwei , Chen Mengxiao , Yang Mingyue , Huang Yuhe , Wang Shuize , Mao Xinping
Published: September 2023

Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) steel has garnered attention as a promising third-generation automotive steel. While the conventional production (CP) method for Q&P steel involves a significant cumulative cold rolling reduction rate (CRRR) of 60–70%, the thin slab casting and rolling (TSCR) process has emerged as a potential alternative to reduce or eliminate the need for cold rolling, characterized with a streamline production chain, high-energy efficiency, mitigated CO2 emission and economical cost. However, the effect of the CRRR on the microstructure and properties of Q&P steel with an initial ferrite-pearlite microstructure has been overlooked, preventing the extensive application of TSCR in producing Q&P steel. In this work, investigations involving different degrees of CRRRs reveal a direct relationship between increased reduction and decreased yield strength and plasticity. Notably, changes in the microstructure were observed, including reduced size and proportion of martensite blocks, increased ferrite proportion and decreased retained austenite content. The decrease in yield strength was primarily attributed to the increased proportion of the softer ferrite phase, while the reduction in plasticity was primarily linked to the decrease in retained austenite content. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing the TSCR process of Q&P steel, facilitating its wider adoption in the automotive sector.
Exploring the Potential of Pure Germanium Kesterite for a 2T Kesterite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cell: A Simulation Study
Authors: Rudzikas Matas , Pakalka Saulius , Donėlienė Jolanta , Šetkus Arūnas
Published: September 2023

Recently, the development of tandem devices has become one of the main strategies for further improving the efficiency of photovoltaic modules. In this regard, combining well-established Si technology with thin film technology is one of the most promising approaches. However, this imposes several limitations on such thin film technology, such as low prices, the absence of scarce or toxic elements, the possibility to tune optical properties and long lifetime stability. Therefore, to show the potential of kesterite/silicon tandems, in this work, a 2 terminal (2T) structure using pure germanium kesterite was simulated with combined SCAPS and transfer matrix methods. To explore the impact of individual modifications, a stepwise approach was adopted to improve the kesterite. For the bottom sub cell, a state-of-the-art silicon PERC cell was used with an efficiency of 24%. As a final result, 19.56% efficiency was obtained for the standalone top kesterite solar cell and 28.6% for the tandem device, exceeding standalone silicon efficiency by 4.6% and justifying a new method for improvement. The improvement observed could be attributed primarily to the enhanced effective lifetime, optimized base doping, and mitigated recombination at both the back and top layers of the CZGSSe absorber. Finally, colorimetric analysis showed that color purity for such tandem structure was low, and hues were limited to the predominant colors, which were reddish, yellowish, and purple in an anti-reflective coating (ARC) thickness range of 20–300 nm. The sensitivity of color variation for the whole ARC thickness range to electrical parameters was minimal: efficiency was obtained ranging from 28.05% to 28.63%.