bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of musical interventions and its effect on blood pressure among United States populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Meda Shreya , Gyamfi Joyce , Patel Kahini , Islam Farha , Vieira Dorice , Nyame Solomon , Ruan Christina , Boradia Krupa , Chhetri Himani , Thunga Sukruthi , Adenikinju Deborah , Amesimeku Etornam , Diawara Amy , Opeyemi Jumoke , Ojo Temitope , Chirinos Carlos , Williams Olajide , Ogedegbe Olugbenga , Peprah Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

Background

Hypertension (HTN) currently affects over 120 million Americans, in the United States (US). Thus, the implementation of evidence-based interventions (EBI) for blood pressure (BP) reduction is pivotal in minimizing this burden. We sought to evaluate evidence from published literature on the effectiveness of musical interventions for BP reduction within the US.

Methods

A systematic review of studies that utilize music interventions to manage BP was conducted in October of 2022. An extensive search of several databases utilizing MeSH terms and relevant keywords was conducted for articles published through October 2022. An updated search was conducted in October 2023 to identify additional studies.

Results

2,381 studies were screened for title/abstract relevancy. 1,885 studies were deemed irrelevant, and 495 studies were examined for full-text review; of which 384 were excluded due to being non-US-based. Overall, 25 studies were found where BP was the primary outcome and discussed musical interventions within the US. Of the 25 studies, 72% reported a significant decrease in BP after the administration of a musical intervention and only 28% reported the race and ethnicity of participants.

Conclusion

There are limited studies that examine the effect of music interventions on BP reduction in the US, as a primary outcome. However, based on the evidence, musical interventions are effective for BP reduction. Moreover, the studies that were conducted in the US include a low percentage of high-risk racial and ethnic minority populations. Future EBI should target this underserved/high-burden group to improve disparity gaps within BP reduction via non-pharmacological means.

Systematic Review Registration

Open Science Framework,doi: 10.17605/OSF.IO/4G3EB.
Current status of the prediction for radio-iodine refractory thyroid cancer: a narrative review
Authors: Wang Yuhua , Lu Xiurong , Liu Haiyan
Published: October 2024

It is well established that patients with the most differentiated thyroid cancers have a good prognosis, whereas when the disease develops into radio-iodine refractory thyroid cancer (RAIR) their prognosis is poor and the 10-year survival rate is low. At present, the therapeutic methods for RAIR are limited and have low efficacy. As a consequence, several models have been developed for predicting RAIR. The aim of this review was to describe recent developments regarding the factors that influence and predict the occurrence of RAIR. Many variables including demographic characteristics, tumor clinicopathology, serology changes, disease characteristics, and PET/CT results have been shown to be independent factors that influence the development of RAIR. The cut-off value derived from multivariate prediction models therefore effectively predicts the onset of RAIR. However, the current models for predicting RAIR were obtained through retrospective studies, and the prospective prediction studies are needed in the future to confirm their validity.
Three-stage resilience enhancement via optimal dispatch and reconfiguration for a microgrid
Authors: Wu Yi-Syuan , Liao Jian-Tang , Yang Hong-Tzer
Published: October 2024

Extreme weather causes an increase in power system failure. Previous studies on system resilience have often overlooked the user-side of a microgrid. This study proposes composite resilience indices (RI) based on the power supply of a large-scale manufacturing campus microgrid to quantify its ability to withstand extreme events. The proposed RI consider load priority, minimum supply load, total energy supplied, and the performance recovery-to-degradation slope ratio in an islanding microgrid. Accordingly, this study presents a three-stage resilience optimal dispatch and reconfiguration strategy, including energy-level scheduling, grid-level reconfiguration, and dynamic-level verification. A multi-objective optimization approach is used for energy scheduling, followed by system reconfiguration via DIgSILENT system modeling to meet the grid code and maximize load supply. Value at Risk methods are used to verify microgrid stability and load shedding requirements, supported by the virtual synchronous generator control of the energy storage system. The test results from a practical large-scale manufacturing campus microgrid validate the proposed approaches for enhancing system resilience considering load values.
Strategic cultivar and sowing time selection for weed management and higher redgram productivity in semi-arid Indian regions
Authors: Marimuthu S. , Byrareddy Vivekananda M. , Dhanalakshmi A. , Mushtaq Shahbaz , Surendran U.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Redgram (Cajanus cajan L. Mill sp.), a leguminous crop commonly grown in tropical and subtropical climates, is highly valued for its high protein content (21%), which contributes significantly to food and nutritional security. However, its production faces challenges primarily due to terminal dryness experienced during critical growth stages because of changing rainfall patterns. To overcome this, adaptive techniques become imperative as the productivity of this crop is intricately linked to environmental factors and the crop’s growth cycle.

Methods

Hence, the field experiment was conducted at the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, in South India under rainfed condition, during the kharif (monsoon) seasons of 2017–18 and 2018–19. The primary objectives were to determine the optimal sowing time and identify suitable redgram cultivars, especially in the context of the late onset of the monsoon in Tamil Nadu, a common issue under changing climate conditions. The experiments tested six different sowing dates with three redgram cultivars.

Results and discussion

The findings highlighted the substantial influence of different redgram cultivars and sowing times on the crop’s growth characteristics and yield. Among the six sowing dates tested, planting in later half of June (S6) resulted in notably higher plant height (201 cm), a greater number of pods per plant (287), a seed yield of 1,112 kg ha−1, and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.61 Notably, this sowing period (S6) demonstrated comparable performance with the treatment of redgram sowing in the latter part of September (S4). CO 6 (V1) is the most productive of the three redgram cultivars, with the highest mean pant height (200 cm), number of pods per plant (237), grain yield (1,017 kg ha−1), and benefit cost ratio (2.38). Extended phenological phases along with extra days to reach phenological stages could account for the increased yield in comparison to the other cultivars. Among the two short-duration cultivars, VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) had a significantly higher mean grain yield of 958 kg ha−1 with the benefit-cost ratio of 2.24. Even though CO 6 (V1) obtained a higher yield due to its long duration nature, it matured in 187 days whereas VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) matured within 129 days. Consequently, the short-duration redgram cultivars emerge as highly suitable choices for integrating into crop sequences, thereby augmenting farm cropping intensity.
Vulnerability of Arctic-Boreal methane emissions to climate change
Authors: Parmentier Frans-Jan W. , Thornton Brett F. , Silyakova Anna , Christensen Torben R.
Published: October 2024

The rapid warming of the Arctic-Boreal region has led to the concern that large amounts of methane may be released to the atmosphere from its carbon-rich soils, as well as subsea permafrost, amplifying climate change. In this review, we assess the various sources and sinks of methane from northern high latitudes, in particular those that may be enhanced by permafrost thaw. The largest terrestrial sources of the Arctic-Boreal region are its numerous wetlands, lakes, rivers and streams. However, fires, geological seeps and glacial margins can be locally strong emitters. In addition, dry upland soils are an important sink of atmospheric methane. We estimate that the net emission of all these landforms and point sources may be as much as 48.7 [13.3–86.9] Tg CH4 yr−1. The Arctic Ocean is also a net source of methane to the atmosphere, in particular its shallow shelves, but we assess that the marine environment emits a fraction of what is released from the terrestrial domain: 4.9 [0.4–19.4] Tg CH4 yr−1. While it appears unlikely that emissions from the ocean surface to the atmosphere are increasing, now or in the foreseeable future, evidence points towards a modest increase from terrestrial sources over the past decades, in particular wetlands and possibly lakes. The influence of permafrost thaw on future methane emissions may be strongest through associated changes in the hydrology of the landscape rather than the availability of previously frozen carbon. Although high latitude methane sources are not yet acting as a strong climate feedback, they might play an increasingly important role in the net greenhouse gas balance of the Arctic-Boreal region with continued climate change.
Extracellular vesicles from human breast cancer-resistant cells promote acquired drug resistance and pro-inflammatory macrophage response
Authors: Santos Patrick , Rezende Caroline P. , Piraine Renan , Oliveira Bianca , Ferreira Francielle B. , Carvalho Vinicius S. , Calado Rodrigo T. , Pellegrini Matteo , Almeida Fausto
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Breast cancer is a significant public health problem around the world, ranking first in deaths due to cancer in females. The therapy to fight breast cancer involves different methods, including conventional chemotherapy. However, the acquired resistance that tumors develop during the treatment is still a central cause of cancer-associated deaths. One mechanism that induces drug resistance is cell communication via extracellular vesicles (EVs), which can carry efflux transporters and miRNA that increase sensitive cells’ survivability to chemotherapy.

Methods

Our study investigates the transcription changes modulated by EVs from tamoxifen- and doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cells in sensitive cells and how these changes may induce acquired drug resistance, inhibit apoptosis, and increase survivability in the sensitive cells. Additionally, we exposed human macrophages to resistant EVs to understand the influence of EVs on immune responses.

Results

Our results suggest that the acquired drug resistance is associated with the ability of resistant EVs to upregulate several transporter classes, which are directly related to the increase of cell viability and survival of sensitive cells exposed to EVs before a low-dose drug treatment. In addition, we show evidence that resistant EVs may downregulate immune system factors to evade detection and block cell death by apoptosis in sensitive breast cancer cells. Our data also reveals that human macrophages in contact with resistant EVs trigger a pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion profile, an effect that may be helpful for future immunotherapy studies.

Discussion

These findings are the first transcriptome-wide analysis of cells exposed to resistant EVs, supporting that resistant EVs are associated with the acquired drug resistance process during chemotherapy by modulating different aspects of sensitive cancer cells that coffer the chemoresistance.
Unexpected diversity and novel lineages in the cosmopolitan genus Nanomia (Cnidaria: Siphonophorae: Physonectae)
Authors: Hosia Aino , Martell Luis , Mańko Maciej K. , Haddock Steven H. D. , Haberlin Damien , Mapstone Gillian M.
Published: October 2024

Integrated use of molecular and morphological methods reveals unexpected diversity in the cosmopolitan siphonophore genus Nanomia. Species delimitation analyses based on COI and 16S sequences suggest up to three distinct lineages in addition to the previously accepted Nanomia bijuga (Delle Chiaje, 1844) and N. cara A. Agassiz, 1865. Here, we describe the North Pacific Nanomia septata sp. n., previously confused with both N. cara and N. bijuga, and provide improved morphological characters for the identification of these three Nanomia species. Phylogenetic analyses suggest two additional, hitherto undescribed clades from Japanese and Chinese waters, respectively, but the lack of morphological material prevents describing these putative species. The geographic distribution of molecularly and/or morphologically verified observations confirm a warm circumglobal distribution for N. bijuga and a boreal North Atlantic distribution for N. cara. Interestingly, four distinct lineages occur in the North Pacific, sometimes in close proximity. These contrasting patterns of distribution raise questions about pelagic speciation processes.

Nanomia septata sp. n.: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:DAF15EA3-AFEA-4AE8-984F-BDFBCFE7E514

urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:478049FC-F672-4D34-ABAE-CF4345EC64D7
Stokes drift and particle trajectories induced by surface waves atop a shear flow
Authors: Li Yan , Zheng Zibo , Kalisch Henrik
Published: October 2024

Surface waves and currents are crucial to the mass transfer in the air-sea interaction as they can drive a variety of dynamical processes. How mass can be transported by surface waves and current coupling is addressed through a study of their induced motions of fluid parcels. To this end, a weakly nonlinear wavetrain is imposed on the background flow whose direction and magnitude are permitted to vary with water depth and second-order features of this configuration are investigated. A leading-order approximation to the Stokes drift is derived, correct to the second order in wave steepness, and applicable to an arbitrarily depth-dependent background flow. The reduced forms of the approximate Stokes drift are provided in a few limiting cases such as a current with an exponential profile or propagating in an orthogonal direction to the wave propagation. Novel features related to the Stokes drift and particle trajectories have been reported for the first time as a result of the rotation induced by the wave and current coupling. A non-vanishing component of the Stokes drift velocity and net-mean displacement of fluid parcels in the span-wise direction to the wave propagation are observed in the cases where a shear current propagates obliquely to the waves direction. A non-monotonic dependence on water depth of the stream-wise component of the Stokes drift is shown, and thereby the largest mass transport induced no longer occurs on the still water surface but some depth beneath. The non-monotonic behavior occurs beyond the regime of the near-irrotational assumption of wave-induced motions. It can also lead to the change of the signs for the stream-wise Stokes drift throughout the water column, and thus an overall cancellation of the integrated mass transport by waves over the water column, indicating that the depth-integrated models can likely lead to underestimated effects of the mass transport which is non-trivial at a local depth. The results from this study have far-reaching impact. The Stokes drift profile is a direct input to the parametrization of the surface waves forcing in ocean circulations and the obliquely propagating Stokes drift can be plausibly responsible for the formation of oblique Langmuir rolls to wave propagation in the open ocean.
Identification of a new Clostridium perfringens variant with a chromosomally encoded enterotoxin gene in a suspected persistent food poisoning outbreak in Eritrea
Authors: Lahti Päivi , Jaakkola Kaisa , Hörman Ari , Heikinheimo Annamari , Sovijärvi Ava , Korkeala Hannu
Published: October 2024

Clostridium perfringens is a causative agent of various human and animal enteric diseases including food poisoning. In this study, we describe an interesting case of a persistent food poisoning outbreak among Finnish peacekeepers in Eritrea, possibly caused by Clostridium perfringens carrying a new variant of the chromosomally encoded enterotoxin gene. C. perfringens strains causing food poisoning carry the enterotoxin gene, cpe, in its chromosome (c-cpe) or on a plasmid (p-cpe). PCR assays are widely used for toxinotype C. perfringens strains. The integration sites for the cpe gene are highly conserved, and PCR assays targeting the cpe gene and the adjacent IS elements (the IS1470 in c-cpe and the IS1470-like or IS1151 in p-cpe strains) are used to further determine the genetic location of the cpe gene. We sequenced nine enteropathogenic C. perfringens strains related to a persistent food poisoning outbreak among Finnish peacekeepers in Eritrea. Six of these strains produced non-typeable cpe results in the standard PCR assay due to divergence in the enterotoxin integration site. The gene order of the new variant of the chromosomal cpe insertion site with an additional IS1470 element impairing genotyping PCR assay for the location of cpe is described. In addition, variant c-cpe strains carried 58–81 copies of IS1470 in their genomes, compared to 9–23 copies found in previously described c-cpe strains. Thus, the present study represents an untraditional type of C. perfringens food poisoning caused by variant c-cpe strains, and the sequenced strains bring geographic variation to the existing strain collection of sequenced C. perfringens.
Effect of mixed planting on soil nutrient availability and microbial diversity in the rhizosphere of Parashorea chinensis plantations
Authors: Li Wannian , Xie Le , Xu Yuanyuan , Yang Mei
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Parashorea chinensis Wang Hsie (Pc) is an endangered tree species endemic to tropical and subtropical China. However, the acidic red soil areas where it is distributed generally face nutrient limitation. The study of the effects of mixed planting on soil biogeochemical processes contributes to the sustainable management and conservation of Pc.

Methods

We selected pure and mixed stands of Pc and collected its rhizosphere and bulk soil samples to clarify the effect of mixed planting on the soil microbial community and the nutrient status.

Results

The results showed that (1) All stands were strongly acidic phosphorus-deficient soils (pH < 4.0, available phosphorus <10.0 mg·kg−1). There was a significant rhizosphere aggregation effect for soil organic C, total and available N and K, microbial biomass, and inorganic P fraction. (2) The mixed planting significantly increased the soil water content, organic C, available nutrients, the activities of β-1,4-glucosidase and urease, and microbial biomass. The inorganic P fractions are more influenced by rhizosphere, while organic P fractions are more influenced by tree species composition. (3) Fungi and their ecological functions are more susceptible to tree species than bacteria are, and have higher community compositional complexity and α-diversity in mixed plantations. And mixed planting can improve network complexity among key microorganisms. (4) The correlation between soil microorganisms and environmental factors was significantly higher in mixed forests than in pure forests. Soil organic C, available N and P, microbial biomass C and N, β-1,4-glucosidase, and stable P fractions were the key environmental factors driving changes in fungal and bacterial communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the mixed planting patterns are more advantageous than pure plantations in improving soil physicochemical properties, enhancing nutrient effectiveness, and promoting microbial activities and diversity, especially Pc mixed with Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla is more conducive to soil improvement and sustainable management, which provides practical references for relocation protection of endangered tree species and species selection and soil fertility management in mixed planting. In addition, the study highlighted the key role of rhizosphere microenvironment in soil nutrient cycling and microbial community structure, which provides new perspectives for a deeper understanding of soil-microbe-plant interaction mechanisms.
Global protein sustainability and the United Nations, through to the 2030 agenda
Authors: Burlingame Barbara , Moltedo Ana , Cafiero Carlo
Published: October 2024

Organizations and initiatives concerned with food security and nutrition have long positioned protein, together with dietary energy, as the keystone for life itself. Indeed, the word protein, derived from the Greek proteios, means ‘of primary importance’. There is a long history of attention to, and controversies over, proteins in UN processes, beginning in the 1930s and continuing to this day. The importance of protein for agriculture, health, food security and nutrition is reflected in the data collected and presented in the statistical databases of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAOSTAT), available per commodity, per country and over an extensive time series. Protein features directly and indirectly in all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which constitute the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Most directly involved is SDG 2. The short title for SDG 2 is ‘zero hunger’. The long title offers more detail: end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
Pediatric pain physician workforce: an assessment of supply and demand
Authors: Theriault Christopher B. , Burns Tracy , Goldschneider Kenneth , Koka Anjali , Logan Deirdre , Weisman Steven J. , Wilder Robert T. , Windsor R. Blake , Zempsky William T.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Many youth with pain lack access to pediatric pain expertise. There is a critical shortage of pediatric pain physicians, due partly to a paucity of training programs in Pediatric Pain Medicine. Pain fellowships are Anesthesiology-based and there is no pathway to fellowship training or Pain Medicine board certification for pediatricians. This workforce assessment sought to examine the current state of Pediatric Pain Medicine in the United States and future interest in pursuing Pain Medicine among pediatricians.

Methods

A multidisciplinary working group of Pain Medicine clinicians designed three surveys to examine pediatric comprehensive pain programs in the US, practice patterns of pediatricians and their motivations and opinions regarding Pain Medicine board certification, and current residents’ exposure to and interest in Pediatric Pain Medicine.

Results

Wait times for initial evaluations are two months or longer for two-thirds of responding centers, and barriers to increase staff size and resources were reported, including an inadequate number of trained or available physicians. Pediatricians expressed interest in earning board certification in Pain Medicine, given the opportunity. Additionally, there is interest among pediatric residents in pursuing Pediatric Pain Medicine, and qualitative data highlight information residents perceived needing in order to pursue a career in the field.

Discussion

Results demonstrate the need for increased training opportunities in pediatric pain medicine. A formal pathway to Pain Medicine for Pediatricians should be developed to increase the potential workforce and to address the lack of trained pediatric pain specialists, thereby improving access to care for youth with pain.
Navigating the path to equitable rheumatologic care for underserved children with quality improvement
Authors: Vora Sheetal S. , Mabus Sarah C. , Buitrago-Mogollon Talia L.
Published: October 2024

Objective

The aim of this quality improvement project is to identify children with rheumatologic conditions to prevent delayed or missed diagnosis in underserved pediatric populations. Our focus is on prompt and accurate identification and subsequent treatment of rheumatologic symptoms in pediatric patients referred from Atrium Health safety-net primary care clinics that deliver care to families without private insurance, including those lacking insurance entirely.

Methods

We collaborated with providers at one safety-net clinic to improve the processes of identification and subspecialty referral, resulting in an increase in the number of identified pediatric patients and referrals for these patients with potential rheumatologic disease. We used the Model for Improvement framework with rapid Plan–Do–Study–Act cycles and evaluated improvement with run and statistical process control charts.

Results

We achieved improvement, with zero referrals in the previous 5 years for the targeted population increasing to 15 patient referrals within 1 year of project initiation. Despite this increase in referrals, the rheumatology clinic was able to see all priority patients within 20 business days from referral.

Conclusion

An awareness of concerning rheumatologic symptoms in safety-net primary care clinics, combined with the use of both visual and decision aids, allows care teams to efficiently recognize and accurately refer patients needing specialty care.
Enabling sustainable crop protection with induced resistance in plants
Authors: Flors Victor , Kyndt Tina , Mauch-Mani Brigitte , Pozo Maria J. , Ryu Choong-Min , Ton Jurriaan
Published: October 2024

Induced resistance (IR), which enables plants to increase their resilience against insect pests and microbial pathogens by promoting their own immunity, has been recognized for its value in crop protection schemes. Despite promising applications, the use of IR in crop protection has remained marginal compared with pesticides and single resistance genes. This review aims to shed light on this disparity by examining the scientific milestones achieved over the past decades for both internal (immunological) and external (ecological) IR strategies. The multifaceted advantages of IR, particularly its ability to provide broad-spectrum protection and enhance the nutritional and nutraceutical value of certain crops, are also discussed. The various obstacles hindering the widespread adoption of IR strategies are then revealed. After considering recent scientific discoveries and insights, potential solutions are proposed, including leveraging epigenetic approaches to understand the mechanisms involved in IR. By acknowledging that the future sustainability of crop protection is irreconcilable with single-use technologies, this review proposes taking advantage of the latest insights regarding the adaptive nature of the plant immune system and its ecological interactions to safely integrate IR into existing crop protection schemes. By emphasizing the need for comprehensive and holistic approaches to basic and translational research, this review sets the stage for leveraging IR alongside other strategies to foster a resilient, environmentally friendly, and economically viable future, thereby ensuring the health of crops.
Screening and expression validation of key proteins for secondary hair follicle growth in cashmere goats based on iTRAQ quantitative proteomics technology
Authors: Chang Jiale , Meng Fanhua , Zhang Ru , Feng Juan , Liu Yujing , Zhang Junjie , Liu Zhaomin , Liang Jiayue , Xiao Hongmei
Published: October 2024

Background

The growth of secondary hair follicles (SHFs) in cashmere goats has periodic changes, including telogen, anagen, and catagen, during which proteins play important roles as the executor of life activities.

Results

In this study, the skin tissues of cashmere goats at three different growth stages of SHFs were collected for proteome sequencing and validation experiments. Through protein differential expression analysis and time series analysis, FKBP prolyl isomerase 10 (FKBP10) and fibrillin 2 (FBN2) were screened as the key proteins for SHF cycle growth of cashmere goats, and albumin (ALB), collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) and elastin (ELN) were predicted to be their interacting proteins. The results of quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunohistochemistry experiments showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of FKBP10, FBN2, COL1A1, ELN and ALB were higher in anagen and lower in telogen. They were all highly expressed in the outer root sheath of SHFs in anagen.

Conclusion

FKBP10, FBN2, COL1A1, ELN, and ALB can promote the growth of SHFs in cashmere goats. This study lays the foundation for analyzing the growth cycle regulatory mechanism of SHFs in cashmere goats, and provides new ideas for further improving cashmere yield and quality.
Complement, Coagulation, and Fibrinolysis: The Role of the Endothelium and Its Glycocalyx Layer in Xenotransplantation
Authors: Gultom Mitra , Rieben Robert
Published: October 2024

In xenotransplantation, the vascular endothelium serves as the first point of contact between the recipient’s blood and the transplanted donor organ. The loss of the endothelium’s ability to control the plasma cascades plays a critical role in the dysregulation of the complement and coagulation systems, which greatly contribute to graft rejection and hinder long-term xenograft survival. Although it is known that an intact glycocalyx is a key feature of a resting endothelium that exhibits optimal anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties, the role of the endothelial glycocalyx in xenotransplantation is barely investigated so far. Here, we discuss the central role of endothelial cells and the sugar-rich endothelial glycocalyx in regulating the plasma cascades, and how the loss of these functions contributes to graft damage and rejection. We highlight the importance of preserving the regulatory functions of both endothelial cells and the glycocalyx as strategies to improve xenotransplantation outcomes.
Assessing the Opportunities and Risks of DUS and VCU Variety Testing for Sustainable Production through SWOT Analysis Results
Authors: Mendler-Drienyovszki Nóra , Magyar-Tábori Katalin , Mancinelli Roberto , Black Lisa , Brown Hazel , Allam Mohamed , Udupa Sripada M. , Atait Mariam , Novarina Elena , Bardelli Tommaso , Hansen Preben Klarskov , Cottney Paul , Giulini Anna
Published: October 2024

Within the European Union (EU), new plant varieties to be included in the Common catalog of a member state have to be registered on the national list after plant variety testing processes to establish whether the candidate variety is distinguishable, uniform, and stable (DUS) and meets the cultivation or use value requirement (VCU). Technical development, climate change, and changing consumer needs, including the detection of GMOs, necessitate the innovation of plant variety testing methods. In our study, we assessed new characters, testing methods, and inclusion of additional data for the potential to benefit the DUS and VCU protocols. To achieve our goal, we asked experts to fill in questionnaires for the DUS and VCU methods currently used for a selection of common crops, including potato, maize, lentil, oilseed rape, and perennial grass. Within the EU-funded “InnoVar” project, partners sent out questionnaires to 19 European Countries and to 3 countries outside Europe. Surveys were aimed at analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of the current methods. With their help, it is possible to look for a new direction, opportunity, and strategy to incorporate, together with the innovative new techniques, into the development of the new methods. Our study demonstrated that the SWOT analysis could be used to achieve the set goals. Results obtained after evaluation of surveys confirmed that introduction of new characters such as cold tolerance, nitrogen and water efficiency, etc. has become necessary, as has the inclusion of new test methods (molecular markers, precision techniques, organic farming). The development of high-yielding, disease and/or pest-resistant plant varieties with good adaptability and the accurate evaluation of genotypes play a crucial role in ensuring that farmers can access high-performing plant varieties and contribute to sustainable food production.
Transcriptional Analysis of Different Cultivars and Genome-Wide Identification of FAD Gene Family in Tree Peony
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Qi , Han Chenjing , Liu Zhifang , Sui Shunzhao , Li Zheng , Zheng Xianli , Hu Chunmei , Zhao Wenshuang , Wang Yu
Published: October 2024

The tree peony (Paeonia ostii), a newly recognized woody oil plant endemic to China, is noteworthy for its high content of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Fatty acid desaturases (FADs) are integral to plant development and defense mechanisms. Nonetheless, there is limited understanding of (i) the molecular mechanism underlying FA biosynthesis in various varieties during seed maturation and (ii) a genome-wide analysis of FAD family genes within the tree peony. We selected three distinct cultivars of tree peony for transcriptome sequencing and performed an extensive analysis of PoFAD genes. In total, 67,542 unigenes were acquired and annotated with six protein databases available to the public. Forty-one differentially expressed genes (DEGs) pertinent to FA biosynthesis and lipid metabolism were identified in this study. Notably, genes such as PoFAD2, PoFAD6, and PoSAD were found to be significantly upregulated, contributing to a differential linolenic acid and linoleic acid content across the three cultivars. Herein, 24 PoFADs from the P. ostii genome were recognized and categorized into four distinct clusters according to their conserved structural features. The distribution of PoFADs was found to be random and uneven across five chromosomes, indicating a complex genomic architecture. Six colinear gene pairs were found between P. ostii and V. vinifera, indicating a potential link due to their close relationship. Together, these findings significantly enhance our knowledge of the molecular processes governing fatty acid synthesis, elucidate the functional roles of the FAD gene family, and lay the groundwork for using genetic manipulation to boost lipid levels.
Deficit Irrigation Regime Improves Phytosanitary Status of Cultivar Arbosana Grown in a Super High-Density Olive Orchard
Authors: Nicolì Francesco , Anaclerio Marco , Maldera Francesco , Nigro Franco , Camposeo Salvatore
Published: October 2024

Super high-density (SHD) planting systems are very efficient in terms of production and water use. In these orchards, water-saving irrigation strategies are used precisely to keep the best sustainability compared to traditional orchards. With agro-climatic and eco-physiological parameter monitoring, the SHD planting system has become even more efficient. SHD orchards, however, could also be more so affected by other pests and diseases than traditional systems, but field responses are still unknown when olive trees are grown in SHD groves. The goal of this two-year field research was to investigate the seasonal changes of the phytosanitary status of ‘Arbosana’ grown in an SHD orchard under both regulated deficit (RDI) and full irrigation regimes (FI). This study investigated the influence of the two different irrigation regimes on the infections of three olive tree key diseases: cercosporiosis (Pseudocercospora cladosporioides), cycloconium (Fusicladium oleagineum), and olive knot (Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi). RDI significantly reduced the severity of cercosporiosis in 2020 compared to FI but not in 2021. Cycloconium was observed only as a latent infection during the two studied years and olive knot was not influenced by irrigation but only by weather conditions. These findings suggest that irrigation management can play a key role in controlling cercosporiosis effectively in SHD olive orchards, but also that weather conditions have an even higher impact on the tree key diseases.
Identification and Functional Characterization of the FATP1 Gene from Mud Crab, Scylla paramamosain
Authors: Zhong Wenjie , Chen Chuangsi , Tan Senyue , He Xianda , Wen Xiaobo , Wang Shuqi , Tocher Douglas R. , Waiho Khor , Chen Cuiying
Published: October 2024

In mammals, fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP1) plays important roles in cellular uptake and activation of long-chain fatty acid (LCFA), especially in processes of transportation, oxidation and triacylglycerol synthesis. However, the role of FATP1 in invertebrates, especially decapod crustaceans, is still poorly understood. In this study, the cDNA of a FATP1 gene from a decapod crustacean, mud crab Scylla paramamosain, was cloned and functionally characterized. The FATP1 gene encoded a polypeptide consisting of 643 amino acids that exhibits all the typical features of the FATP family and shares high homology with the other FATP orthologs of crustaceans. The relative mRNA expression levels of FATP1 were observed to be higher in metabolically active tissues such as hepatopancreas, stomach and gill than in other crab parts. Knockdown of the FATP1 mRNA in vivo significantly reduced triacylglycerols and total lipid levels in the hepatopancreas, accompanied by an increase in the expression of genes related to fatty acid transportation, allocation and hydrolysis, including long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 3/4 (ACSL3/4) and carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT1), and a decrease in the expression of genes related to fatty acid synthesis such as acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) in the hepatopancreas. Furthermore, increased dietary n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) levels resulted in the up-regulation of the FATP1 expression in the hepatopancreas, accompanied by an increase in LC-PUFA content, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3), in both polar (PLs) and neutral lipids (NLs) in the hepatopancreas and muscles of crabs. These findings suggested that the FATP1 gene identified in S. paramamosain might play important roles in regulating long-chain fatty acid metabolism and deposition in crustaceans.
The Periodic Feeding Frequency of the Juvenile Tropical Rock Lobster (Panulirus ornatus) in the Examination of Chemo-Attract Diet Performance and Colour-Contrast Preference
Authors: Peters Christopher , Infante Villamil Sandra , Nankervis Leo
Published: October 2024

Significant research investment into tropical rock lobster (TRL) aquaculture production methods has led to a rapidly developing industry in Vietnam and, more recently, in Australia. The need for an effective formulated feed has been highlighted for both industries; however, feed intake has been a consistent limitation. Visual and chemical cues regulating feed recognition and consumption are expected to yield valuable data, leading to increased feed intake. Lobsters were placed in white- and grey-coloured enclosures to examine the effect of background colour on their feeding behaviour in terms of feeding occurrence and response time. The impact of background colour on TRL feeding behaviour found no statistically significant differences between TRL in white and grey enclosures, suggesting grayscale contrast does not directly affect feeding behaviour. Experiment 2 studied the effects of coloured feeding zones on feeding response in white enclosures. Yellow feeding zones led to a decreased feeding time (473 ± 443 s) and increased time spent feeding (168 ± 1832 s) compared to other colours, possibly due to the yellow-blue chromaticity (b*) contrast. Experiment 3 examined chemo-attractants (glycine, taurine and inositol) and their influence on the feeding behaviour of TRL, but no increased responses were observed. Experiments two and three assessed TRL feeding activity in morning and evening periods, highlighting their nocturnal behaviour, with more feeding occurring in the evening. This project enhances our understanding of photoreceptive and chemoreceptive factors affecting TRL feeding behaviour with formulated feed. It also reveals the potential for background colour changes to enhance marketable colours in commercial settings. Additionally, the study confirmed the effective use of animal tracking software (EthoVision XT) for lobster species tracking in future behavioural trials.
Influence of the Thickness of Freezing of the Soil Surface and Snow Cover on Methane Emissions during Freezing of Seasonal Permafrost
Authors: Li Chenzheng , Brouchkov Anatoly V. , Cheverev Viktor G. , Sokolov Andrey V. , Zhou Bicheng
Published: October 2024

Methane, a type of greenhouse gas, poses considerable concern for humans. This study uses field experiments and satellite measurements to explore methane emission mechanisms during the freezing of seasonal permafrost and the contributing factors. In the transitional seasons of autumn and winter, as soil begins to freeze, methane emissions surge dramatically in a brief period. During this phase, the emissions peak, enabling the soil to accumulate over 9000 mg/m3 of methane rapidly. Snow cover also plays a crucial role in mitigating methane emissions. The porous nature of a sufficiently thick snow cover aids in temporarily trapping methane through a stratified blocking process, effectively matching the inhibitory capability of unfrozen soil. In comparison to unfrozen soil (54–237 mg/m3), snow cover can suppress methane emissions up to 20 times more, reducing emissions by as much as 3399 mg/m3.
Radixin: Roles in the Nervous System and Beyond
Authors: Chong Zhao Zhong , Souayah Nizar
Published: October 2024

Background: Radixin is an ERM family protein that includes radixin, moesin, and ezrin. The importance of ERM family proteins has been attracting more attention, and studies on the roles of ERM in biological function and the pathogenesis of some diseases are accumulating. In particular, we have found that radixin is the most dramatically changed ERM protein in elevated glucose-treated Schwann cells. Method: We systemically review the literature on ERM, radixin in focus, and update the roles of radixin in regulating cell morphology, interaction, and cell signaling pathways. The potential of radixin as a therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer was also discussed. Results: Radixin research has focused on its cell functions, activation, and pathogenic roles in some diseases. Radixin and other ERM proteins maintain cell shape, growth, and motility. In the nervous system, radixin has been shown to prevent neurodegeneration and axonal growth. The activation of radixin is through phosphorylation of its conserved threonine residues. Radixin functions in cell signaling pathways by binding to membrane proteins and relaying the cell signals into the cells. Deficiency of radixin has been involved in the pathogenic process of diseases in the central nervous system and diabetic peripheral nerve injury. Moreover, radixin also plays a role in cell growth and drug resistance in multiple cancers. The trials of therapeutic potential through radixin modulation have been accumulating. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the roles of radixin are far from clarification. Conclusions: Radixin plays various roles in cells and is involved in developing neurodegenerative diseases and many types of cancers. Therefore, radixin may be considered a potential target for developing therapeutic strategies for its related diseases. Further elucidation of the function and the cell signaling pathways that are linked to radixin may open the avenue to finding novel therapeutic strategies for diseases in the nervous system and other body systems.
The Role of Immune Cells and Signaling Pathways in Diabetic Eye Disease: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Barone Vincenzo , Surico Pier Luigi , Cutrupi Francesco , Mori Tommaso , Gallo Afflitto Gabriele , Di Zazzo Antonio , Coassin Marco
Published: October 2024

Diabetic eye disease (DED) encompasses a range of ocular complications arising from diabetes mellitus, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, diabetic keratopathy, diabetic cataract, and glaucoma. These conditions are leading causes of visual impairments and blindness, especially among working-age adults. Despite advancements in our understanding of DED, its underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Chronic hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurodegeneration play central roles in the development and progression of DED, with immune-mediated processes increasingly recognized as key contributors. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the complex interactions between immune cells, inflammatory mediators, and signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of DED. By delving in current research, this review aims to identify potential therapeutic targets, suggesting directions of research for future studies to address the immunopathological aspects of DED.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Improving Balance in Healthy Older Adults and Older Adults with Stroke: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tseng Shih-Chiao , Dunnivan-Mitchell Sharon , Cherry Dana , Chang Shuo-Hsiu
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Age-related decline in balance and postural control is common in healthy elders and is escalated in aging adults with stroke. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as one of the promising brain stimulations adjoining therapeutic exercise to enhance the recovery of balance and motor functions in persons with and without neurological disorders. This review aims to summarize and compare the available evidence of the tDCS on improving balance in the older adults without neurological disorders and the older adults with stroke. Methods: The Ovid (Medline) database was searched from its inception through to 06/15/2024 for randomized controlled trials investigating tDCS for improving balance in older adults with and without stroke. Results: Overall, 20 appropriate studies (including 271 stroke subjects and 259 healthy older adults) were found. The data indicate mixed results of tDCS for improving balance in older adults with and without stroke. Conclusions: Based on current research evidence, we have not found a specific tDCS protocol that is more effective than other tDCS protocols for improving balance and postural control in healthy older adults and older adults with stroke. Further research should explore the ideal tDCS approach, possibly in conjunction with standard interventions, to optimize postural control and balance in healthy older adults and older adults with stroke.
β-Mangostin Alleviates Renal Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis via the TGF-β1/JNK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Huang Po-Yu , Juan Ying-Hsu , Hung Tung-Wei , Tsai Yuan-Pei , Ting Yi-Hsuan , Lee Chu-Che , Tsai Jen-Pi , Hsieh Yi-Hsien
Published: October 2024

The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis, and kidney fibrosis is associated with an adverse renal prognosis. Beta-mangostin (β-Mag) is a xanthone derivative obtained from mangosteens that is involved in the generation of antifibrotic and anti-oxidation effects. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of β-Mag on renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro and the corresponding mechanisms involved. As shown through an in vivo study conducted on a unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse model, oral β-Mag administration, in a dose-dependent manner, caused a lesser degree of tubulointerstitial damage, diminished collagen I fiber deposition, and the depressed expression of fibrotic markers (collagen I, α-SMA) and EMT markers (N-cadherin, Vimentin, Snail, and Slug) in the UUO kidney tissues. The in vitro part of this research revealed that β-Mag, when co-treated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), decreased cell motility and downregulated the EMT (in relation to Vimentin, Snail, and N-cadherin) and phosphoryl-JNK1/2/Smad2/Smad3 expression. Furthermore, β-Mag co-treated with SB (Smad2/3 kinase inhibitor) or SP600125 (JNK kinase inhibitor) significantly inhibited the TGF-β1-associated downstream phosphorylation and activation of JNK1/2-mediated Smad2 targeting the Snail/Vimentin axis. To conclude, β-Mag protects against EMT and kidney fibrotic processes by mediating the TGF-β1/JNK/Smad2 targeting Snail-mediated Vimentin expression and may have therapeutic implications for renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis.