bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Student Statistical Literacy as An Initial Study for Sekolah Siaga Kependudukan in Indonesia : A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Wijayanti Palupi Sri , Juandi Dadang
Published: April 2024

This study aims to analyze studies on statistical literacy skills in Sekolah Siaga Kependudukan (SSK). Statistical literacy skill is part of mathematical literacy skill which is an assessment of students' mathematical abilities. The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of all research articles indexed in Scopus, Sinta, Google Scholar, Semantic, and ERIC in the period 2018-2023. The search strategy was adjusted to the selection criteria. It used the PRISMA protocol with study characteristics such as education level, year of publication, research method, sample size, journal indexer, and research location. Data analysis of this study was conducted in a quantitative descriptive manner. The results of this SLR study stated that research related to students' statistical literacy skills has relatively increased research trends over the past five years. The research database that has been published and is the result of SLR research shows that most journal indexers are Q2 rank Scopus and are dominated by qualitative research. The majority of research locations were carried out in Indonesia in accordance with the existence of the Sekolah Siaga Kependudukan, which only exists in Indonesia. Further research recommendations can accommodate statistical research and learning with collaborative modules and student activities so as to improve aspects of statistical literacy skills in the form of interpreting, communicating, evaluating, and making data-based decisions.
EDITORIAL COMMENTARY INTRODUCTION IN SPECIAL ISSUE ON PRINCIPLES IN XIANGJI (INTERPHASE) OPERATION
Authors: Tingshuo Yang
Published: April 2024

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Teaching English to Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Authors: Maysuroh Siti , Dwimaulani Astrid , Wati Laila , Nurhayati Nurhayati , Yusri Nurul
Published: April 2024

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically show a unique pattern in their language learning. This fact has been documented in a number of earlier investigations. However, it was discovered that Indonesian teachers and educational institutions were insufficiently prepared to fulfill the needs of their students, both in terms of teaching strategies and the material development. This study then aimed at examining appropriate strategies of teaching English to ASD students as well as finding out the challenges faced by teacher in teaching English in the classroom. The research design of this study was case study research with qualitative approach. The participant of this study was English teacher at SLBN 01 Lombok Timur chosen using purposive sampling. The researchers used documentation, in-depth interviews, and observation to acquire data. The results revealed that the teacher faced some challenges in teaching ASD students, such as lack of focus and concentration during teaching and learning process and speech delay. To address these issues, the teacher and school principle used some strategies to teach children with autism, namely developing oral language comprehension and developing lesson plan with visual media to help the student learn English as a foreign language
Introducing the Single Player Offline Game Corpus (spoc): a corpus of seven registers from digital role-playing games
Authors: Dixon Daniel H.
Published: April 2024

This paper describes the compilation and design of the Single Player Offline Game Corpus (spoc), which is being made freely available for research and educational purposes. The spoc was compiled by extracting the localisation files from the digital directories of four popular commercial digital role-playing games: Divinity: Original Sin II, Fallout 4, the Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and the Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. The 3.7 million word corpus contains more than 30,000 texts and is unique compared with other game corpora in that it has the following three characteristics: ( 1) the texts are categorised into seven registers using Biber and Conrad’s (2019) register framework, ( 2) texts are systematically parsed into the smallest meaningful units of observation, and ( 3) all texts were compiled from the data files of the games themselves. Nearly all language use in the four games is accounted for and parsed into register categories based on their underlying situational characteristics – in particular, the communicative purposes and the associated contexts in which the texts appear in the games.
Content On Active Ageing In University Degrees: A Study In Spain And Portugal
Authors: Moreno-Sánchez Emilia , Gago-Valiente Francisco-Javier , Mendoza-Sierra María-Isabel , Sáez-Padilla Jesús , Castillo-Viera Estefania , Campos-de-Sousa-Faria María-Cristina , Lozano-Carvalhal Sandra-Rebeca , Justo-Henriques Susana-Isabel , Martins-Texeira-Da-Costa Emilia-Isabel , Gouveia-Baltazar María-José , Da-Costa-Bizarro-Morais Diana-María
Published: April 2024

Background:  to  analyse  the  study  plans  of  undergraduate  and  postgraduate  degrees  at  the  University  of  Huelva  (Spain),  the  Beja  Polytechnic  Institute  (Portugal)  and  the  Algarve  University  (Portugal),  to  identify  content  on  attention  to  diversity,  ageing  and  the  four  pillars  of  the  World  Health  Organisation  for  this  population  (health,  safety,  continuous  learning,  and  participation).  Methods:  a  methodology  was  carried  out  mixed  research,  in  the  first  place  a  quantitative  phase  of  data  analysis  was  carried  out,  for  which  the  statistical  program  SPSS  was  used  for  the  observation  of  frequencies  and  percentages.  In  the  second  phase  of  the  work,  and  in  a  qualitative  way,  carried  out  an  analysis  of  the  content  of  the  program  collected  in  the  syllabuses.  Results:  of  the  total  of  the  54  degrees  analysed,  content  related  to  active  aging  or,  the  4  basic  pillars  that  the  WHO  comments  to  address  it,  were  only  found  in  a  visible  way  in  the  degrees  related  to  the  disciplines  of  Physical  Activity,  Psychology,  Social  Sciences,  Gerontology,  Nursing,  and  Special  Education.  Conclusions:  this  work  shows  that  there  is  a  lack  of  content  on  care  for  ageing  in  many  university  degrees  that  enables  students  to  work  with  this  specific  population  group.  This  analysis  led  to  the  conclusion  that  many  professionals  who  have  contact  with  the  senior  population  do  not  receive  the  necessary  training  to  respond  to  the  particular  needs  of  individuals  in  this  age  group.
Viabilidad de la implementación de un programa de yoga en personas mayores: un estudio piloto
Authors: Herrera-Mercadal Paola , Campos Bacas Daniel , Ibáñez Asensio Olga
Published: April 2024

El envejecimiento poblacional se ha incrementado a nivel mundial, siendo un hecho biológico, social y cultural. En Aragón, se impulsan programas de envejecimiento activo que apoyan un envejecimiento en positivo y responsable. El yoga se encuentra reconocido dentro de estas actividades impartidas en los Hogares de Mayores. En este trabajo se busca explorar la viabilidad y eficacia preliminar de implementar un programa de yoga en personas mayores.
La muestra fue de 33 personas mayores de 60 años, de tres Hogares de Mayores del Instituto Aragonés de Servicios Sociales (IASS). El programa de yoga tuvo una duración de 16 semanas, dos horas a la semana.
Los resultados de este estudio ponen de manifiesto un efecto positivo de la práctica del Yoga en la percepción de la salud y la satisfacción con la vida en personas mayores de 60 años. La implantación de este tipo de programas se estima como viable y bien aceptada por los potenciales usuarios/as.
Promoção do Envelhecimento Saudável e Ativo na Cidade
Authors: Faria Maria Cristina
Published: April 2024

O envelhecimento pode ser compreendido numa perspetiva positiva a caminho de uma longevidade, que se pretenda que seja digna, segura, feliz e com qualidade de vida. A opção por investir em percursos de envelhecimento saudável e ativo para todos é de responsabilidade individual e social e tem impacto a nível local e global. A tomada desta decisão permite que as pessoas percebam o seu potencial a desenvolver, os cuidados a ter com a sua saúde e se disponibilizem para a promoção do seu próprio bem-estar. A Década do Envelhecimento Saudável (2020-2030) é uma oportunidade para pensar melhor o envelhecimento, concertar sinergias multidisciplinares, realizar adaptações e investimentos para promover o envelhecimento saudável, compreendido numa perspetiva de desenvolvimento e manutenção da capacidade funcional, que permite o bem-estar na velhice. Essa capacidade funcional é determinada pela capacidade intrínseca de um indivíduo, pelo ambiente em que vive e pelo as interações entre eles. O presente trabalho tem como principal objetivo destacar como o envelhecimento saudável e ativo se encontra ligado à promoção da saúde, à aprendizagem ao longo da vida, à monitorização das políticas públicas através das indicações do Active Ageing Index (AAI) e do AgeWatch Index (AWI) e às comunidades pro-envelhecimento e pró-longevidade. Foi realizada uma revisão da literatura para integrar as informações, gerando reflexões que auxiliam a tomada de decisões e estratégias que conduzam a boas práticas.
Primer reporte de Mortierella sp. en el cultivo de Chile en Tamaulipas, México
Authors: Díaz-Aguilar Rocío de Jesús , Gallegos-Morales Gabriel , Hernández-Castillo Francisco Daniel , Espinoza-Ahumada César Alejandro , Velarde-Felix Sixto
Published: April 2024

Antecedentes: El género Mortierella se encuentra en el suelo y está asociado a las raíces de frutales, sin embargo, existen pocos reportes de su aislamiento en cultivos hortícolas.
Objetivo: Determinar la identidad de un hongo aislado de raíces de plantas de chile y su posible papel como fitopatógeno.
Métodos: Se colectaron plantas de chile serrano (Capsicumm annuum) con síntomas de amarillamiento y marchitez en lotes comerciales de Altamira, Tamaulipas. A partir de raíces se realizaron aislamientos de hongos en medios de cultivo artificiales. Las cepas obtenidas se identificaron morfológica y molecularmente, y se evaluó su patogenicidad.
Resultados y conclusiones: De acuerdo con los caracteres morfológicos y moleculares el patógeno se identificó como Mortierella sp., las plantas inoculadas con las cepas obtenidas no presentaron síntomas. Se reporta por primera vez la presencia del género Mortierella sp. en el cultivo de chile en Tamaulipas, México.
Efectos en la diversidad de micromicetos por cambios de uso de suelo en Vertisol
Authors: Yáñez Díaz María Inés , Marmolejo Monsiváis José Guadalupe , Cantú Silva Israel
Published: April 2024

Antecedentes: Los cambios de uso de suelo afectan las propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo, influyendo en la presencia, distribución y abundancia de los microorganismos presentes.
Objetivo: Analizar la riqueza, abundancia y diversidad de micromicetos en un Vertisol con diferentes sistemas de uso de suelo mediante una evaluación de la similitud e influencia de las propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo.
Métodos: Se colectaron 24 muestras de suelo, 3 muestras por cada uso de suelo (matorral espinoso tamaulipeco, pastizal, agrícola y plantación de Eucalyptus spp.) y a dos profundidades (0-5 y 5-30 cm). Se utilizó el método de dilución en placa en dos medios de cultivo (EMA y RBA), contabilizando y aislando las colonias para su identificación morfológica.
Resultados y conclusiones: Se obtuvieron 734 morfoespecies en los cuatro usos de suelo, logrando identificar 33 géneros y 90 especies, encontrándose diferencias entre diversidad, riqueza y abundancia entre los usos de suelo y profundidad, pero no para la interacción. Cladosporium cladosporioides, Aspergillus terreus, A. ustus, Fusarium oxysporum y Penicillium glabrum se presentaron en los cuatro usos de suelos, mientras que el 48% de los aislamientos solo ocurrieron en algunos de ellos. Las propiedades fisicoquímicas presentaron baja asociación, siendo arcilla, fierro y CIC, las más explicativas.
Nomenclatura y vocabulario del recurso micológico con importancia biocultural de la cultura mazateca en Oaxaca, México
Authors: Ríos-García Uzziel , Martínez-Reyes Magdalena , Carrera-Martínez Anaitzi , Hernández-Santiago Faustino , Díaz-Aguilar Irma , Leyva-López José C. , Cházarez-Vargas Feliciano , Pérez-Moreno Jesús
Published: April 2024

Antecedentes: Los estudios etnomicológicos realizados en la región mazateca, al norte del estado de Oaxaca, México, se han enfocado principalmente a especies del género Psilocybe por su importancia ceremonial y de sanación entre los mazatecos de la parte alta. En contraste, el conocimiento y las percepciones locales del uso de otras especies con importancia biocultural y vocablos relacionados a las especies fúngicas, han recibido escasa atención.  
Objetivo:  Registrar los vocablos y nomenclatura local relacionada con las especies fúngicas con importancia biocultural para los habitantes de la comunidad mazateca de Eloxochitlán de Flores Magón, estado de Oaxaca.
Metodología: Se realizaron entrevistas estructuradas, semiestructuradas y no estructuradas, recorridos y recolectas de material fúngico en campo durante la época de lluvia de 2017 al 2021.
Resultados y conclusiones: Se registraron 116 vocablos relacionados con el recurso micológico en la comunidad desde la cosmovisión mazateca. Dicha nomenclatura se asocia a 27 especies de hongos silvestres con importancia biocultural en la comunidad de estudio. Este estudio documenta que un rico conocimiento micológico pervive a pesar de los fuertes procesos de transculturación a los cuales actualmente es sometida la comunidad mazateca.
Oasis agriculture revitalization and carbon sequestration for climate-resilient communities
Authors: Dhawi Faten , Aleidan Megbel M.
Published: April 2024

Revitalizing oasis agriculture, an age-old human endeavor, has historically played a crucial role in sustaining biodiversity and ecosystems in arid regions. Nevertheless, this enduring practice now faces contemporary challenges, including global warming, water scarcity, soil erosion, and negative human activities associated with urbanization. This comprehensive review delves into diverse literature across disciplines, covering topics such as water conservation, biodiversity restoration, agroforestry, and Oasis Holistic Management, with the aim of addressing these challenges. The analysis strongly advocates for the urgent adoption of sustainable practices, including precision irrigation, polyculture, organic farming, agroforestry, and community-based initiatives, to ensure the survival of oasis agriculture and foster long-term environmental and social responsibility. The study underscores the imperative need for the development of “comprehensive, flexible, and forward-looking management strategies” to guide the sustainable revival of oasis farming. By consolidating information from various studies, it lays the groundwork for informed decision-making and policy formulation. As part of revitalizing the oasis agricultural ecosystem and addressing the global climate crisis, we propose a noninvasive tool for assessing carbon sequestration effectiveness based on tree specifications. Recognizing the pivotal role of vegetation in mitigating the ecological impact and facing global crises, we explored parameters influencing plant carbon sequestration, including biomass production, growth rate, longevity, root structure, leaf structure, and average temperature tolerance.
Global review of quantitative studies of primary moult of birds using the Underhill-Zucchini moult model
Authors: Scott Tanya , Underhill Les G.
Published: April 2024

Knowledge about the timing of moult and how it fits into the annual cycle, along with breeding and, in some cases migration, is an important component of understanding the life history of birds. In comparison with breeding and migration, there is a lack of knowledge about the moult of birds. Primary moult can be quantified using models such as the Underhill-Zucchini moult model. Studies that included estimates of primary moult parameters (duration, mean start date and standard deviation of mean start date) obtained using the Underhill-Zucchini moult model were compiled from the literature to generate a moult analysis database. These parameters provide information about the timing of moult, how it fits into the annual cycle and how synchronised moult is in the population. Relationships between the estimated moult parameters and a series of explanatory variables were explored. Critical gaps in our understanding of primary moult were revealed. The available data are taxonomically biased towards Charadriiformes and Passeriformes and there are substantial gaps in coverage across the phylogenetic tree. There are severe biases in the global distribution of moult studies across continents, with Africa having almost half of all applications of the moult model. Latitude emerged as an important explanatory variable but there are latitudinal gaps in the data, especially from the Tropic of Capricorn extending to 40°N and in the far northern and far southern hemispheres. Citizen scientists, both bird ringers and photographers, have a key role to play in helping to fill these data gaps. An emerging pattern in the available data is that the timing of primary moult is more synchronised in populations in far northern and far southern latitudes than in temperate or tropical zones, but more data in the far south is needed to confirm this. Timing of moult shows great variability in the tropics and sub-tropical regions of the southern hemisphere. In species that undertake an annual sequential moult, larger birds take longer to moult than smaller birds, but the allometric relationship is not tight. Migrants appear to be more synchronised in their moult than residents.
MicroRNA target homeobox messenger RNA in HIV induced hematopoietic inhibition
Authors: Koka Prasad S. , Ramdass Bharathi
Published: April 2024

Cytopenias are a common occurrence due to abnormal hematopoiesis persistent in patients suffering from and advancing with HIV/AIDS. In order to develop efficacious therapies against cytopenias, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms by which HIV infection affects the differentiation of hematopoietic stem-progenitor cells (HSPCs), causing hematopoietic inhibition, that leads to hematological disorders. Currently, only the antiretrovirals that are being used to treat HIV infection and indirectly lower the levels of virus replication also co-attenuate cytopenias. The evidence available suggests that this indirect efficacy may not prevail for the lifetime of the infected patients, and the acquired immunodeficiency can overtake the beneficial consequences of decreased virus replication. As cited in this article, we and our colleagues are the first to make a foray into the involvement of microRNAs and their use as potential interventional treatments for the cytopenias that occur with HIV/AIDS. Herein, we progressed further in the direction of the mechanisms of the involvement of homeobox gene regulation to cause cytopenias. We had previously shown that HIV-1 inhibits multi-lineage hematopoiesis of the CD34+ cells using SCID-hu Thy/Liv animals in vivo. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the virus-induced hematopoietic inhibition occurred despite the CD34+ cells being resistant to HIV-1 infection. We set out to search for the specific host factors secreted by CD4+ T-cells that likely participate in the inhibition of hematopoiesis of the HIV infection-resistant CD34+ cells. More recently, we reported the identification of virus-infected CD4+ thymocyte-secreted miRNA-15a and miRNA-24 and that their differential expression following HIV infection causes the indirect inhibition of hematopoiesis. We then hypothesized that the observed miRNA differential expression in the virus-infected T-cells causes the abnormal regulation of homeobox (HOX) gene-encoded transcriptomes in the CD34+ cells, affecting specific MAPK signaling and CD34+ cell fate, thereby disrupting normal hematopoiesis. We present that in HIV infection, miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional dysregulation of HOXB3 mRNA inhibits multi-lineage hematopoiesis, which translates into hematological disorders in virus-infected patients with HIV/AIDS. These observations portend specific microRNA candidates for potential efficacy against the virus-induced cytopenias that are otherwise not treatable by the existing HAART/ART regimens, which are primarily designed and applicable for the attenuation of virus replication.
Golgi defect as a major contributor to lysosomal dysfunction
Authors: Akaaboune Sarah R. , Wang Yanzhuang
Published: April 2024

The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in lysosome biogenesis and the delivery of lysosomal enzymes, essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and ensuring cell survival. Deficiencies in Golgi structure and function can profoundly impact lysosomal homeostasis, leading to various lysosomal storage diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we highlight the role of the Golgi Reassembly Stacking Proteins (GRASPs) in the formation and function of the Golgi apparatus, emphasizing the current understanding of the association between the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and lysosomal storage diseases. Additionally, we discuss how Golgi dysfunction leads to the secretion of lysosomal enzymes. This review aims to serve as a concise resource, offering insights into Golgi structure, function, disease-related defects, and their consequential effects on lysosomal biogenesis and function. By highlighting Golgi defects as an underappreciated contributor to lysosomal dysfunction across various diseases, we aim to enhance comprehension of these intricate cellular processes.
Towards the development of a landslide activity map in Slovenia
Authors: Jemec Auflič Mateja , Oštir Krištof , Grabrijan Tanja , Ivačič Matjaž , Peternel Tina , Šegina Ela
Published: April 2024

To create the landslide activity map, we implemented and tested the procedure to fully utilise the 6-day repeatability of the Sentinel-1 constellation in three pilot areas in Slovenia for the observation period from 2017 to 2021. The interferometric processing of the Sentinel-1 images was carried out with ENVI SARScape, while the interpretation of the persistent scatterers InSAR data was done in three steps. In the first step, a preliminary interpretation of the landslide areas was performed by integrating the PS InSAR data into a GIS environment with information that could be relevant to explain the movement patterns of the PS InSAR points. In the second step, a field validation was performed to check the PS InSAR in the field and record the potential damage to the objects indicating the slope mass movements. In the third step, the deformations were identified, and areas of significant movement were determined, consisting of clusters of at least 3 persistent scatterers (PS) with a maximum spacing of 10 m. The landslide activity map was created based on the landslide areas categorised into four classes based on the geotechnical analyses, yearly velocity data obtained by PS InSAR, and validation of annual velocity data obtained by in-situ and GNSS monitoring and field observation. A total of 21 polygons with different landslide activities were identified in three study areas. The overall methodology will help stakeholders in the early mapping and monitoring of landslides to increase the urban resilience.
Toward better blockchain-enabled energy trading between electric vehicles and smart grids in Internet of Things environments: a survey
Authors: Aoudia Meriem , Alaraj Mustafa B. M. , Abu Waraga Omnia , Mokhamed Takua , Abu Talib Manar , Bettayeb Maamar , Nasir Qassim , Ghenai Chaouki
Published: April 2024

With the rise of the 3Ds—decarbonization, decentralization, and digitalization—the number of electric vehicles is projected to increase, necessitating the implementation of modern technologies to avoid unnecessary energy wastage. Numerous studies have been developed proposing electric vehicle (EV) charging frameworks in networks empowered by renewable energy resources. In addition, more focus has recently been directed on incorporating blockchain technology to assure security and transparency in trading systems. However, fewer studies have delved into developing a practical implementation of their solution due to the complexity of the topic. Therefore, this paper thoroughly investigates integrating blockchain technology in electric vehicle charging systems, analyzing the existing practical implementation and their characteristics. It comprises 48 relevant studies between 2017 and 2023, covering the following main research areas: (i) renewable energy-based electric charging systems, (ii) blockchain frameworks used in energy trading, and (iii) performance metrics of simulated and implemented solutions. Results show that blockchain applications in EVs and energy trading systems are highly current, and researchers are actively exploring ways to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
The symmetric and asymmetric effect of financial development on ecological footprint in South Africa: ARDL and NARDL approach
Authors: Khoza Sibusiso , Biyase Mduduzi
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The literature on the finance–emission nexus offers conflicting conclusions. This study resolves this inconsistency by investigating the symmetric and asymmetric effect of financial development on ecological footprint in South Africa, using the Environmental Kuznets Curve framework as a guide. Given the coexistence of ecological deficits and world-class financial development systems in South Africa, it is essential to explore and evaluate potential solutions to mitigating these deficits. Our empirical analysis contributes to the body of literature on the impact of financial development and ecological footprint by using a comprehensive measure of financial development and disaggregates it into its sub-indices to provide a nuanced analysis.

Method: This study employs the linear auto regressive distribution lag and nonlinear auto regressive distribution lag techniques to explore the complex interactions of financial development and ecological footprint.

Results and Discussion: The findings of this research indicate that financial markets and institutions seem to have varying effects on the ecological footprint. Financial market indices promote environmental quality, while financial institutions exacerbate environmental quality. These results call for policymakers to craft a watertight process that will encourage both financial markets and institutions to allocate capital to projects that are pro-environmental.
Latitudinal diversity of planktonic copepods in the Eastern Pacific: overcoming sampling biases and predicting patterns
Authors: Rivera Reinaldo , Escribano Ruben , González Carolina E. , Pérez-Aragón Manuela
Published: April 2024

Gradients of latitudinal diversity are one of the biogeographic features calling the most attention in ecology and macroecology. However, in pelagic communities of the marine environment, geographic trends and patterns are poorly known. We evaluated the latitudinal variation in species richness of marine planktonic copepods in the Eastern Pacific using spatial statistical models and approaches that mitigate and account for biases in occurrence data. A Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) and regression-Kriging based models allowed us to estimate and predict alpha diversity in poorly sampled regions, whereas beta diversity patterns were assessed using generalized dissimilarity analysis (GDM). Species richness showed a bimodal pattern, with a maximum of 291 species in the Northern Hemisphere and Tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean. Particulate Organic Carbon, salinity (max), spatial autocovariate, range of salinity and temperature, and Mixed Layer Depth, explained 85.2% of the latitudinal variability of copepods. Beta diversity was structured into four macrozones associated with the main water masses of the North and South Pacific.Our analytical approaches can overcome the limitations of data gaps, predicting greater diversity in subtropical and coastal areas, while providing insights into key drivers modulating spatial diversity patterns.
Adaptation responses of different ecotypes of Leymus chinensis to saline–alkaline stress
Authors: Li Ya-Xiao , Ma Hong-Yuan , Ni Hong-Wei , Li Shao-Yang , Xu Lu , Sun Meng-Dan , Qi Wen-Wen , Zhao Dan-Dan
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Soil salinity–alkalinity has emerged as a global problem affecting many ecosystems, including grassland. Plants evolve into different ecotypes to adapt to various environments. Leymus chinensis widely distributed in the eastern Eurasian steppe, has evolved into two main ecotypes: yellow–green(YG) and gray–green (GG). Studies on the adaption mechanisms of both ecotypes in response to saline–alkaline stress are limited.

Methods

In this study, the growth and physiological traits of ecotypes YG and GG in soils with different salinity–alkalinity levels—severe saline–alkaline soil (SS), moderate saline–alkaline soil (MS), and light saline–alkaline soil (LS)—were studied. After exposure to saline–alkaline stress for 15 months, the L. chinensis ecotypes exhibited significant differences in the growth characteristics.

Results

The specific leaf area, individual tiller biomass, net photosynthetic rate, and potassium content of the two ecotypes under MS conditions were significantly higher than or similar to those under LS conditions. This indicates that L. chinensis showed a certain degree of tolerance to saline–alkaline environments under MS conditions. Saline–alkaline stress increased the tillers by 56% in GG and reduced them by 26% in YG, and did not alter the SLA and the number of individual tiller leaves of GG but reduced that of YG. Moreover, with increasing levels of saline–alkaline stress, ecotype GG exhibited an increase in net photosynthetic rate (Pn), while ecotype YG showed insignificant changes. Under SS, GG exhibited higher Pn and chlorophyll content than YG. Additionally, with the increase in the saline–alkaline stress level, the Na+ content increased, but GG exhibited a significantly lower Na+ content than YG. Conversely, the K+ and Ca2+ contents and the K+/Na+ and Ca2+/Na+ ratios decreased, but GG exhibited higher values than YG.

Discussion

GG reduced Na+ by absorption by increasing tillers. Additionally, GG absorbed more K+ and Ca2+ ions, thereby maintaining higher K+/Na+ and Ca2+/Na+ ratios than YG under saline–alkaline stress. These adaptive strategies enable ecotype GG to grow and maintain normal physiological functions under high saline–alkaline stress. The findings of this study hold practical significance for enhancing the economic and ecological value of saline–alkaline grasslands.
Role of transcriptional regulation in auxin-mediated response to abiotic stresses
Authors: Marzi Davide , Brunetti Patrizia , Saini Shashank Sagar , Yadav Gitanjali , Puglia Giuseppe Diego , Dello Ioio Raffaele
Published: April 2024

Global climate change (GCC) is posing a serious threat to organisms, particularly plants, which are sessile. Drought, salinity, and the accumulation of heavy metals alter soil composition and have detrimental effects on crops and wild plants. The hormone auxin plays a pivotal role in the response to stress conditions through the fine regulation of plant growth. Hence, rapid, tight, and coordinated regulation of its concentration is achieved by auxin modulation at multiple levels. Beyond the structural enzymes involved in auxin biosynthesis, transport, and signal transduction, transcription factors (TFs) can finely and rapidly drive auxin response in specific tissues. Auxin Response Factors (ARFs) such as the ARF4, 7, 8, 19 and many other TF families, such as WRKY and MADS, have been identified to play a role in modulating various auxin-mediated responses in recent times. Here, we review the most relevant and recent literature on TFs associated with the regulation of the biosynthetic, transport, and signalling auxin pathways and miRNA-related feedback loops in response to major abiotic stresses. Knowledge of the specific role of TFs may be of utmost importance in counteracting the effects of GCC on future agriculture and may pave the way for increased plant resilience.
Unraveling the immunogenetic landscape of autism spectrum disorder: a comprehensive bioinformatics approach
Authors: Ma Jieying , Liu Deyang , Zhao Jianzhong , Fang Xiaolu , Bu Dengyin
Published: April 2024

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a disease characterized by social disorder. Recently, the population affected by ASD has gradually increased around the world. There are great difficulties in diagnosis and treatment at present.

Methods

The ASD datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and the immune-relevant genes were downloaded from a previously published compilation. Subsequently, we used WGCNA to screen the modules related to the ASD and immune. We also choose the best combination and screen out the core genes from Consensus Machine Learning Driven Signatures (CMLS). Subsequently, we evaluated the genetic correlation between immune cells and ASD used GNOVA. And pleiotropic regions identified by PLACO and CPASSOC between ASD and immune cells. FUMA was used to identify pleiotropic regions, and expression trait loci (EQTL) analysis was used to determine their expression in different tissues and cells. Finally, we use qPCR to detect the gene expression level of the core gene.

Results

We found a close relationship between neutrophils and ASD, and subsequently, CMLS identified a total of 47 potential candidate genes. Secondly, GNOVA showed a significant genetic correlation between neutrophils and ASD, and PLACO and CPASSOC identified a total of 14 pleiotropic regions. We annotated the 14 regions mentioned above and identified a total of 6 potential candidate genes. Through EQTL, we found that the CFLAR gene has a specific expression pattern in neutrophils, suggesting that it may serve as a potential biomarker for ASD and is closely related to its pathogenesis.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study yields unprecedented insights into the molecular and genetic heterogeneity of ASD through a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. These valuable findings hold significant implications for tailoring personalized ASD therapies.
Research progress of autoimmune diseases based on induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Ren Rutong , Jiang Jinhe , Li Xinxin , Zhang Guirong
Published: April 2024

Autoimmune diseases can damage specific or multiple organs and tissues, influence the quality of life, and even cause disability and death. A ‘disease in a dish’ can be developed based on patients-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and iPSCs-derived disease-relevant cell types to provide a platform for pathogenesis research, phenotypical assays, cell therapy, and drug discovery. With rapid progress in molecular biology research methods including genome-sequencing technology, epigenetic analysis, ‘-omics’ analysis and organoid technology, large amount of data represents an opportunity to help in gaining an in-depth understanding of pathological mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic strategies for these diseases. This paper aimed to review the iPSCs-based research on phenotype confirmation, mechanism exploration, drug discovery, and cell therapy for autoimmune diseases, especially multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and type 1 diabetes using iPSCs and iPSCs-derived cells.
Comparative analysis of whole plant, flower and root extracts of Chamomilla recutita L. and characteristic pure compounds reveals differential anti-inflammatory effects on human T cells
Authors: Lairikyengbam Divya , Wetterauer Bernhard , Schmiech Michael , Jahraus Beate , Kirchgessner Henning , Wetterauer Pille , Berschneider Karina , Beier Verena , Niesler Beate , Balta Emre , Samstag Yvonne
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of chronic wounds and inflammatory skin diseases. Due to a hyperactive and prolonged inflammation triggered by proinflammatory immune cells, transitioning to the repair and healing phase is halted. T cells may exacerbate the proinflammatory milieu by secreting proinflammatory cytokines. Chamomilla recutita L. (chamomile) has been suggested for use in several inflammatory diseases, implying a capability to modulate T cells. Here, we have characterized and compared the effects of differently prepared chamomile extracts and characteristic pure compounds on the T cell redox milieu as well as on the migration, activation, proliferation, and cytokine production of primary human T cells.

Methods

Phytochemical analysis of the extracts was carried out by LC-MS/MS. Primary human T cells from peripheral blood (PBTs) were pretreated with aqueous or hydroethanolic chamomile extracts or pure compounds. Subsequently, the effects on intracellular ROS levels, SDF-1α induced T cell migration, T cell activation, proliferation, and cytokine production after TCR/CD3 and CD28 costimulation were determined. Gene expression profiling was performed using nCounter analysis, followed by ingenuity pathway analysis, and validation at protein levels.

Results

The tested chamomile extracts and pure compounds differentially affected intracellular ROS levels, migration, and activation of T cells. Three out of five differently prepared extracts and two out of three pure compounds diminished T cell proliferation. In line with these findings, LC-MS/MS analysis revealed high heterogeneity of phytochemicals among the different extracts. nCounter based gene expression profiling identified several genes related to T cell functions associated with activation and differentiation to be downregulated. Most prominently, apigenin significantly reduced granzyme B induction and cytotoxic T cell activity.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate an anti-inflammatory effect of chamomile- derived products on primary human T cells. These findings provide molecular explanations for the observed anti-inflammatory action of chamomile and imply a broader use of chamomile extracts in T cell driven chronic inflammatory diseases such as chronic wounds and inflammatory skin diseases. Importantly, the mode of extract preparation needs to be considered as the resulting different phytochemicals can result in differential effects on T cells.
Comparison of ocean-colour algorithms for particulate organic carbon in global ocean
Authors: Kong Christina Eunjin , Sathyendranath Shubha , Jackson Thomas , Stramski Dariusz , Brewin Robert J. W. , Kulk Gemma , Jönsson Bror F. , Loisel Hubert , Galí Martí , Le Chengfeng
Published: April 2024

In the oceanic surface layer, particulate organic carbon (POC) constitutes the biggest pool of particulate material of biological origin, encompassing phytoplankton, zooplankton, bacteria, and organic detritus. POC is of general interest in studies of biologically-mediated fluxes of carbon in the ocean, and over the years, several empirical algorithms have been proposed to retrieve POC concentrations from satellite products. These algorithms can be categorised into those that make use of remote-sensing-reflectance data directly, and those that are dependent on chlorophyll concentration and particle backscattering coefficient derived from reflectance values. In this study, a global database of in situ measurements of POC is assembled, against which these different types of algorithms are tested using daily matchup data extracted from the Ocean Colour Climate Change Initiative (OC-CCI; version 5). Through analyses of residuals, pixel-by-pixel uncertainties, and validation based on optical water types, areas for POC algorithm improvement are identified, particularly in regions underrepresented in the in situ POC data sets, such as coastal and high-latitude waters. We conclude that POC algorithms have reached a state of maturity and further improvements can be sought in blending algorithms for different optical water types when the required in situ data becomes available. The best performing band ratio algorithm was tuned to the OC-CCI version 5 product and used to produce a global time series of POC between 1997–2020 that is freely available.
Expanding oxygen minimum zones in the northern Indian Ocean predicted by hypoxia-related bacteria
Authors: Liu Jinyan , Cui Zhisong , Luan Xiao , Wang Zongling , Zhang Xuelei
Published: April 2024

Oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) in the ocean are areas with dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations below critical thresholds that impact marine ecosystems and biogeochemical cycling. In the northern Indian Ocean (NIO), OMZs exhibit a tendency to expand in mesopelagic waters and contribute significantly to global nitrogen loss and climate change. However, the microbial drivers of OMZ expansion in the NIO remain understudied. Here, we characterized bacterial communities across DO gradients in the NIO using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that Marinimicrobia, Chloroflexi, and the SAR324 clade were enriched in both oxygen-deficient and low oxygen mesopelagic waters. Furthermore, Marinimicrobia, Chloroflexi, and the SAR324 clade exhibited a significant negative correlation with DO (P < 0.01), suggesting that they were well-adapted to the oxygen-deficient OMZ habitat. Functional predictions revealed heightened nitrogen metabolism in OMZs, particularly nitrate reduction, suggesting its pivotal role in nitrogen loss. These findings underscore the importance of microbial communities in driving OMZ expansion in the NIO and highlight their implications in global biogeochemical cycles and climate change.
10 Years of Frontiers in materials: interface engineering for aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Yang Jia-Ning , Tian Han , Wang Kai-Xue , Chen Jie-Sheng
Published: April 2024

Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries (ZIBs), characterized by their high theoretical capacity, cost-effectiveness, and robust safety profile, stand out as one of the most promising contenders for the next-generation of electrochemical energy storage applications. Nevertheless, the commercialization of ZIBs encounters obstacles of unsatisfactory energy density and suboptimal cycling stability, which are related to the unstable interfaces of Zn anodes and cathodes. Herein, the research advances in Zn anodes and cathode materials and corresponding interface engineering in recent years are systematically reviewed. The rationalization of these research can guide further investigations in the design of cathode/anode materials in ZIBs.
Maternal anemia and red blood cell requirements in 72 women undergoing ex-utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure
Authors: Kloka Jan Andreas , Jasny Thomas , Jennewein Lukas , Friedrichson Benjamin , Zacharowski Kai , Neef Vanessa
Published: April 2024

Background

The ex-utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) allows to ensure fetal airway while keeping uteroplacental circulation. However, EXIT may become a life-threatening procedure due to the increased risk of uterine atony or placenta abruption with increased peripartum blood losses and increased transfusion rates. We aim to review maternal anemia prevalence and transfusion requirements in women undergoing EXIT procedure.

Methods

Using data from the Federal German Statistical Office hospitalized women undergoing EXIT procedure between January 1st 2006 and December 31st 2021 were included. The prevalence of anemia, peripartum hemorrhage, comorbidities and administration of red blood cells (RBC) were analyzed.

Results

In total, 72 women underwent EXIT procedure with a median age of 31 years (26;33.5). In 43.1% EXIT was conducted at 34–36 weeks of gestational age. “Anemia during pregnancy” was present in 47.2%, “anemia due to acute bleeding” in 25.0% and “iron deficiency anemia” in 15.3%. Postpartum hemorrhage occurred in 11.1%. RBCs were transfused in 15.3% of all women. Most women required 1–5 units of RBCs.

Conclusion

Despite the rarity of this procedure, anemia management and blood conservation strategies in order to reduce the need for RBC transfusion are highly important in women undergoing EXIT procedure.
Diagnostic accuracy of circulating miRNAs to discriminate hepatocellular carcinoma from liver cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alemayehu Ermiyas , Belete Melaku Ashagrie , Walle Muluken , Getu Fasil , Mulatie Zewudu , Teshome Mulugeta , Anley Denekew Tenaw , Weldehanna Daniel Gebretsadik , Gedefie Alemu , Ebrahim Hussen
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver cirrhosis (LC) stand as the primary causes of global mortality. Given their profound impact, the development of highly sensitive and specific circulating diagnostic markers becomes imperative to effectively identify and differentiate between cirrhosis and HCC. Accurate diagnosis is paramount in guiding appropriate therapeutic interventions. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) in discerning between HCC and LC.

Methods

This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, with the protocol officially registered on PROSPERO under the reference number CRD42023417494. A thorough search across multiple databases like PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, and Science Direct was conducted to identify relevant studies published from January 1, 2018, to August 10, 2023. The included studies underwent methodological quality assessment using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QADAS-2) tool. The synthesis of pooled sensitivity, specificity, and other relevant diagnostic parameters employed a random-effects model and was conducted using Stata 14.0. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 and Cochrane Q, with subsequent subgroup analysis and meta-regression performed to identify potential sources of observed heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the resilience of the findings. Furthermore, Deeks’ funnel plot was employed to evaluate publication bias.

Results

In this meta-analysis, we included fifteen publications, encompassing 787 HCC patients and 784 LC patients. The combined sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) values of miRNAs in differentiating HCC from LC were 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78–0.88), 0.79 (95% CI: 0.73–0.84), 3.9 (95% CI: 3.0–5.2), 0.21 (95% CI: 0.14–0.29), 19.44 (95% CI: 11–34), and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.85–0.91), respectively. The results of the subgroup analysis revealed that upregulated miRNA levels and miRNA assessments specifically for individuals of European descent exhibited superior diagnostic performance.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggested that circulating miRNAs, especially those that are upregulated, have the potential to function as robust and promising biomarkers in the differentiation of HCC from LC.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023475954.